.jpg)
LAUREL — Laurel-Concord-Coleridge’s new elementary school principal is a leader with heart both in name and action.
Keri Hart joined the administration team at the elementary school for the 2023-24 school year.
The Wakefield native said ‘Harmony’ was identified as her top Clifton strength and it also sums up her leadership style.
“Leadership is about making people realize they are a part of something bigger than themselves,” she said. “I truly believe we are better together. Each and every staff member has unique strengths and when we can draw on each of those strengths, we can accomplish amazing things together. . . . While we may have to have tough conversations and disagreements along the way, I want to promote an environment where we can respectfully have those tough conversations, and still walk away with respect for each other and with a common decision knowing we’re on the same team working towards the same goal.”
Hart brings her background and experience to her new role, previously working as a school psychologist at ESU 1 for four years. She also worked at Norfolk Public Schools as a school psychologist for two years.
She received her bachelor’s degree from Midland University in psychology and sociology; her educational specialist degree in school psychology at the University of Nebraska-Kearney along with her master’s degree in educational administration with an emphasis on school principalship from preschool to eighth grade.
“After finishing my administrative degree, I didn’t necessarily plan on jumping into a principal position, but when the elementary position (at LCC) came open, I wondered if it was a sign,” Hart said. “I was intrigued by the idea of being able to serve the school district in which I lived as I could potentially have an impact on not only the school where my kids would attend, but all of the students in the district. The community of Laurel has a lot to offer, and I think a strong relationship between the school and community is essential to help our community continue to thrive, and I wanted to be a part of that.” Her goal for Year 1 is to continue to build school culture and effective collaboration among staff as well as within the community.
“Overall, my main goal is to build trusting relationships to build a strong foundation between staff, parents, and community as we work together to best serve for our students,” she said.
Hart and her husband, Justin, have lived in Laurel since 2018. They are parents to 7-year-old Quincy and 4-year-old Chaney. They are expecting another child, to arrive in December.
Outside of school, Hart enjoys chasing her kids, walking, playing volleyball and spending time outdoors.
