Hello Central School Cheetahs!

My name is Shannon Simkus, and I am honored to serve as the principal of Central Elementary School. Every single day, I wake up grateful to come to work — a place filled with energy, curiosity, laughter, and learning. With four children of my own at home and so many “school kids” here at Central, I truly feel surrounded by the joy of watching children grow, change, learn, and make progress every day.

The best part of my day is being in classrooms — watching, listening, and learning alongside our students and teachers. I am incredibly proud to be a Central School Cheetah, and even prouder of our dedicated staff who care deeply about our school community and every child’s learning journey.

My Philosophy and Purpose

At Central, our mission is simple: Every child is safe, every child is learning.
Children cannot learn until they feel safe — and safety includes not just the physical but also the emotional and psychological well-being of our students. Once students feel secure, we can support their growth in academics, social-emotional learning, and in developing the character and confidence to be positive, contributing members of society.

As an instructional leader, I am passionate about individualized learning—meeting students where they are, challenging them to reach their potential, and supporting them every step of the way. Our classrooms are joyful, engaging, and predictable spaces where all students can thrive and see themselves as capable learners.

My philosophy is grounded in grace, love, and growth:

  • All students can learn.
  • Every day is a fresh start for every child and adult.
  • We are all here to help students become a better version of themselves each day.

When students leave Central for middle school, my goal is that they carry with them the tools to problem-solve, make good choices, reflect when needed, and maintain their love for learning and life.

Community and Collaboration

Our school is student-centered, and we believe that strong schools are built through collaboration among all stakeholders — students, staff, families and the community. A great example of this is when our students initiated the idea to change our mascot. Together, students, parents and staff discussed, voted and proudly chose the Cheetah—a symbol of pride, energy, and belonging for our entire school family.

I am deeply proud of our staff at Central—they are the best and brightest, bringing balance, creativity, and heart to everything they do. We work together to ensure every student feels seen, valued, and loved.

Our school celebrates and appreciates diversity, creating a welcoming environment where everyone can be their authentic selves. We recognize that our differences make us stronger, and we take pride in creating spaces where every child and adult feels a sense of belonging.

A Community I’m Proud to Call Home

I love this community so much that I chose to make it my family’s home. I wanted my own children to experience the warmth, opportunities and excellence that this town and its schools provide. Central is more than a school: it’s a family.

Whether I’m wearing my cheetah-print shoes or cheering on our students, my passion is always the same: to bring students, staff and families together in a community built on love, learning and belonging.

Thank you for being a part of our Central School family where every day is a new opportunity to learn, grow and shine. Together, we are building a community where every child is safe, loved, challenged and supported to reach their fullest potential.

With pride and gratitude,
Shannon Simkus