I am a Washington native, being raised in the small community of Duvall. My family owned and operated a small dairy in the Snoqualmie Valley. Growing up on a dairy farm provided numerous opportunities for chores and the responsibility that comes with them. I always enjoyed summertime most, as the summer months meant making hay and silage for the animals and lots of fresh corn and other garden treats for our family in late August.

My father was rather unique in his career choices – not only did he operate a dairy farm, but he also was an elementary school teacher. For 31 years he worked with students in the 4th, 5th, and 6th grades. I would have to say his fun teaching stories had a big influence on my decision to become a teacher. When high school came to an end for me and it was decision time for a career, I chose teaching, and I have never regretted for one moment this decision.

For thirteen years, I enjoyed teaching 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students myself. During this time I worked with outstanding colleagues who not only modeled great teaching strategies, but modeled the value and power of developing positive relationships between a teacher and student. Somewhere in my teaching career, a philosophy of education grew and developed in me. I believe we educate a child for the good of that child, not for our own purpose. Educators, in partnership with parents, in addition to the three R’s, need to help children learn about their own strengths and growth areas, awaken their passions, and encourage them to reach for the sky so they may make good career choices when the time comes.

Why did I want to be a principal? For me, it was a desire to use my skills on a broader level, having influence not only on students, but the teachers who teach them. I want to make sure the teachers I with whom I work believe also that a positive relationship with students will increase their effectiveness as a teacher one hundred fold. I want to ensure that this staff knows equal time should be given to lesson planning, lesson delivery and relationship building. When all three work together, then a teacher is maximizing their effectiveness. When this occurs, kids are the winners!

I believe public education is one of the best things this country has to offer. As a teacher, I have seen countless positive events in the lives of public school children. If only all could make the paper! Everyday in this country kids from all walks of life come together to learn their ABC’s and in turn learn about each other. I work everyday to do my part to ensure public education stays a part of our American culture.

My wife of 16 years and I are raising three wonderful sons, currently 2nd, 4th, and 6th grades. I have two older brothers, one who lives close and one who lives far away in California. We enjoy being parents, but admit to underestimating the time and energy it takes to care for kids. It wears us out at times. We are certainly not perfect at parenting, but our boys appear to be thriving despite us. Our summertime fun revolves around camping, always close to a river, lake, mountain or good hike. Our boys fortunately share our love of the outdoors.

Thoreau Elementary Staff work hard to make your child’s experience at school a warm one. We hope parents feel this warmth as well.

- Steve Roetcisoender