Welcome to our new principal - Mrs. Ciacchella 

It is with great excitement and gratitude that I introduce myself to you as the new Principal of Messmore Elementary.  I am truly honored to join this exceptional community and to serve alongside a dedicated staff, engaged families, and remarkable Messmore Mavericks.  

As I begin this new journey with you together, I am inspired by the enduring legacy of Dr. Renee Fiema, and the foundational Montessori principles that continue to guide our work each day.  Maria Montessori believed that education should nurture the whole child, foster independence, cultivate curiosity, and empower students to become lifelong learners.  These principles deeply resonate with me, both professionally and personally, and I am committed to building upon this strong foundation while ensuring every child is supported, challenged, and celebrated. 

My connection to Montessori education began long before my career in education.  My mother was a Montessori teacher, and some of my fondest memories are of helping in her classroom while witnessing the joy of discovery, independence, and respect for each child’s unique learning journey.  Those early experiences sparked my own personal passion for education and inspired me to pursue a degree in Child Development and Language Arts education to continue to guide my commitment to fostering student growth while upholding the high standards of excellence our Messmore community values.  

My professional background is deeply rooted in Montessori principles and a commitment to educating the whole child.  Beyond my double degree in Child Development and Language Arts education from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Teaching, I hold an Educational Specialist degree in Leaderhsip and have dedicated more than 23 years to education.  During that time, I have taught all students in every grade level from Kindergarten through eighth grade, including multi-age split classroom settings, the Virtual Academy environment, a learning consultant and an Elementary Principal for three years.   

As a principal, I look forward to supporting our Mavericks and staff, strengthening partnerships with families, and building meaningful connections throughout our community.  My commitment to UCS is both professional and personal: I am a proud UCS parent and my husband is also a UCS educator.  Together, we will continue to nurture an environment where students grow in confidence, independence, compassion, and a lifelong love learning. I am excited to get to know our families and learn more about the traditions and values that make Messmore Elementary such a special place. 

With gratitude and enthusiasm, 

Mrs. Ciacchella