Principal's Welcome

Dear Orchard Families, 

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year!  It is an honor to introduce myself as the Principal of Orchard Elementary School and to join this extraordinary school community.  I am blessed to work alongside talented students, dynamic teachers, and incredibly supportive families as we welcome students back for an exciting year full of learning. I can assure you that I share in this school community’s commitment to caring for your children each day while providing them a safe, positive, and enriching learning environment while growing passionate minds and compassionate hearts. 

Orchard staff are deeply devoted to our students’ social-emotional and academic growth.  We are committed to teaching to a high standard of academic rigor and developing the creative and critical thinking skills students need to be successful inside and outside of the classroom.  

Please know that my door is always open to you.  I heartily welcome your conversation and positive input throughout this year.  Relationships between families and the school are vital to the success of our students and I encourage you to become involved in every way possible.  Let us always keep our students the primary focus of our work.  I look forward to seeing you all soon and celebrating our collective successes during the school year.  

In partnership,

Kristien McKenzie
Orchard Principal
kristien.mckenzie@rsd.edu