2023-2024 Redland Middle School Administration
Mr. Matthew Niper: Principal
I am proud to be the principal at Redland Middle School and privileged to serve as an administrator in Montgomery County Public Schools. I have been working in the field of education since 2003 and I have served as a science teacher, assistant principal, principal intern and acting principal. As the principal at Redland Middle School, I will work with our administrative team, leadership team and staff to continue the work of raising the level of achievement for all students. I strongly believe that through positive relationship building and a belief in each student as an individual, every student can be successful and accomplish their set goals.
I am also the proud parent of three energetic boys and my wonderful wife and I spend much of our extra time with them and our two dogs. My family can frequently be seen enjoying a sporting event, play or concert at Redland. They are excited to be a part of our Bulldog Family.
As an educational leader my core values center around motivation, dedication, respect and creative vision. These values play a key role in decision making and goal setting. I continuously strive to motivate and mentor our students and staff, developing strategies to support the school improvement plan and therefore increasing the overall student performance. I am dedicated to a strong and well-rounded student and I look forward to working with your students to develop this. In addition, respect is important to a student and their success. I continuously stress the importance of being respectful and how it makes stronger individuals throughout life. Your students will encounter an environment at Redland Middle School that is supportive, challenging, engaging and innovative. I look forward to supporting all students, staff and parents, implementing our mission and vision and continuing the strong community relationships, outstanding instructional programs, and highly effective collaboration for which Redland is known.
Ms. Kristen Range: Assistant Principal
I am excited to join the Redland Middle School Bulldog family! As a product of MCPS, I began my career in education with MCPS in 2003. I have passionately served as a mathematics teacher, mathematics resource teacher, and an assistant principal. I earned an undergraduate degree from University of Maryland, College Park, and a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University.
My eight-year-old daughter Elsa is especially thrilled to cheer on the Redland Bulldogs! Elsa and I spend our free time exploring nature, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, skiing, or hiking. During these fun adventures, I enjoy teaching her the sense of accomplishment through overcoming obstacles. My favorite quote is from author Maya Angelou, “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.”
I am excited to lead the Redland community with my core beliefs and values of “grit,” “growth mindset,” “positive relationship building,” and “equity and social justice for ALL.” It is my passion to provide a safe learning environment where ALL students are being met with engaging and rigorous instruction. With equity, empathy, and grit, I am eager to serve the Bulldog community and collaborate with the outstanding staff of Redland Middle School to increase academic achievement and ensure the social-emotional well-being of every student.
Mrs. Molly Murray: Assistant Principal
I am thrilled and honored to continue with the Redland Middle School community as an Assistant Principal. In my 22 years with MCPS, I have served as a mathematics teacher, Math Content Coach, Immersion Coordinator, International Baccalaureate Coordinator, and Staff Development Teacher. Most recently, I have served as Redland’s Alternative 1 Teacher, Restorative Justice Coach and Leader in Me Coordinator. As Assistant Principal, I am committed to maintaining a strong sense of community, providing opportunity and access for all students, and teaching students the skills and attributes to become successful leaders.
I have been married to my husband, Chris, for 22 years. Our daughter, Kalei, is 19 and entering her sophomore year at University of Maryland. She is majoring in Animal Sciences with a goal of becoming a veterinarian. You may also see her on the sideline of a game as a Terp Cheerleader. Our son, Sean, is 16 and entering his Junior year of high school. He is an avid lacrosse player and enjoys fishing and hunting. As a family, we enjoy watching and attending sports, traveling, and playing with our two dogs.
I am driven by my core values including building positive relationships, being data-driven, and perseverance. I believe that positive relationships create the foundation of a school community in which all stakeholders feel they are a valuable part of it. I am passionate about using academic and wellness data to drive decision making to meet the needs of all students and stakeholders. I will work tirelessly to provide our staff, students and their families with the support and resources they need to succeed and be well.
SInce working at Redland MS for the first time in 2003 as a mathematics teacher, the Bulldogs have always had a special place in my heart; I am honored to be a part of this family.