Dear Alderwood Community,
As I begin my tenth year as Principal of Alderwood Elementary, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude on the incredible journey we’ve taken together. What began with hope, vision, and a strong sense of purpose has grown into a decade of partnership, progress, and shared pride in our students, staff, and community.
Before becoming principal, I served as a Kindergarten teacher here for nine years and later as a School Site Support TOSA right here at Alderwood. This school has always been home to me. It is a place where children are at the center of every decision, where relationships drive our work, and where our collective commitment to excellence continues to shape the educational experience for all students.
This year, our theme is Together We SHINE!—a celebration of who we are and what we stand for. As part of this exciting year, we are proud to roll out our refreshed PBIS values, aligned with the letters in SHINE:
S – Show Respect
H – Help Others
I – Include All
N – Never Give Up
E – Ensure Safety
Although the acronym has changed, these values remain deeply rooted in the long-standing traditions and community spirit of Alderwood Elementary. They reflect the heart of who we are and will be taught, modeled, and celebrated across campus. These guiding principles define how we learn, lead, and care for one another. As we live them each day, we truly SHINE together as one Alderwood community.
Today, more than ever, our work is guided by a spirit of continuous improvement. Together, we use data, reflection, and collaboration to ensure every student receives the academic, social, and emotional support they need to thrive. We have embraced this mindset in our instructional practices, our intervention systems, and our efforts to create a school where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
I approach every situation through the lens of how I would want my own children to be treated. I ask myself—how would I want my sons to be supported, and how would I want my husband and I to be heard? This mindset grounds my leadership in empathy, compassion, and fairness. I am committed to ensuring that every student and family feels respected, supported, and truly cared for.
Alderwood continues to be exceptional because of the strong, collaborative partnership between our staff, families, and community. Your engagement, whether it is through classroom volunteering, involvement in the PTA, or meaningful conversations with your children at home, plays a vital role in shaping the joyful, safe, and academically rich environment that defines who we are.
Outside of school, I live in San Juan Capistrano with my husband Stephen, our twin 12-year-old sons, Jackson and Joshua, our Rottweiler Ruby, and my wonderful parents. I understand firsthand the hopes and concerns parents carry, and I am honored to serve a community where those hopes are met with dedication, care, and purpose.
As we look ahead to another year of learning, growing, and celebrating together, I remain inspired by the resilience and kindness of our students, the dedication of our educators, and the unwavering support of our families. Our future is bright, and the work we do together truly makes a difference. I am excited for all that this year will bring and remain deeply committed to leading with heart, purpose, and the values that make Alderwood SHINE!
With gratitude and excitement,
Kelli Cheshire
Principal, Alderwood Elementary
“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou