Dear Palo Verde Elementary Families,

I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the Palo Verde students, families, and staff with such a rich tradition of learning. During these past two years, we have worked together as a Palo Verde team:  students, parents, family members, community, and building level staff to ensure your child has a positive educational experience and is acquiring the skills for academic success. 

Growing up in western Minnesota on a family farm, I enjoyed spending time outdoors, helping on the farm, and spending time with my family.  While in high school, I participated in athletics (basketball, volleyball, golf, track) and music (band, choir, piano).  This well rounded education prepared me for my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and Athletic Coaching Certificate from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. During the past 34 years, I have been dedicated to the field of education at the elementary, middle school, and administrative levels in both Minnesota and Arizona.  I earned my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff and Educational Specialist Degree, K-12 Principal, from Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota.  Previously,  I served as elementary principal for six years at Madelia Elementary in Madelia, Minnesota.  Prior to my time there, I spent nineteen years as an elementary teacher in both Minnesota and Arizona, and district leader within the Mesa Public School system.           

As a Palo Verde team, we believe that everyone who steps through our doors—students, family members, support staff, teachers, community—feel welcome!  As we continue to grow and strive for excellence, we will be targeting our efforts in creating a safe and positive learning environment for all students through a strong PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) framework, implementation of engaging, research based instructional practices to maximize each student’s individual growth, and consistent communication between school and families.  We value excellent attendance and punctuality to ensure students have full access to their education, with our belief that every minute matters! Focusing on what is best for students is at the heart of what we do….student learning and growth (academically, socially, behaviorally) is our number one priority.  All of us at Palo Verde Elementary are eager and excited to have you join us!  

My door is always open, and I welcome your input.  Please feel free to stop in, call or email me to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. I feel truly blessed to be the instructional leader of such a wonderful school, Palo Verde, in the heart of the Casa Grande community.  Go Jaguars! 

Sincerely,

Mrs. Carol Wrightson, Palo Verde Principal