Administration
Principal Mrs. Cassandra Heifetz
Assistant Principal Mr. Ed Dohler
Dear Ritchie Park Elementary School Staff, Parents/Guardians, and Students:
It is with great excitement that I introduce myself as the new principal of Ritchie Park Elementary School! I am both honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve the students, staff, and families of Ritchie Park Elementary School and to continue the tradition of excellence established by the staff and the community. I am confident that as a united and collaborative school community we will make a difference in each child’s life through an engaging, rigorous, and nurturing learning environment.
This year marks my 10th year as a school administrator, my 25th year in MCPS, and my 27th year in education overall. My prior administrative roles include assistant principal, principal intern, principal, and most recently, the dean at the Montgomery Virtual Academy. In addition to my administrative experiences, I have also served as a third grade teacher, a middle school mathematics and English teacher, a media specialist, and briefly, a supervisor in the Office of Special Education.
I have bachelors degrees in Elementary and Special Education, a masters degree in Instructional Technology for School Library Media, a graduate certificate in Administration and Supervision, and am currently pursuing my doctorate degree through Bowie State University for Educational Leadership. Throughout all of my work and my own educational experiences, my core values of relationships, equity, learning, and high expectations serve as a guide and anchor.
On a personal note, I live in Olney, have been married for 26 years, and have two adult children. My husband, Adam, is a teacher and the Social Studies Content Specialist at Eastern Middle School here in MCPS. Our daughter, Moriah, is currently an MD/PhD student at the Medical University of South Carolina and our son, Caleb, is starting his senior year at Frostburg University where he majors in Parks and Recreation Management. I am also a proud dog-mom, enjoy yoga and cooking, and love to travel!
As I serve Ritchie Park Elementary School, I look forward to establishing meaningful relationships built on trust, inspiring a culture of equity and excellence, and collaborating around our shared vision of ensuring high academic achievement and social-emotional wellbeing for all students. As a parent, I understand the importance of being a champion for my children, and I appreciate the partnerships I have with parents. I know that together we can, we make each year a success for each and every child!
I look forward to our partnership and to supporting your child’s growth and success!
Warmly,
Mrs. Cassandra Heifetz
Principal
Ritchie Park Elementary School