Principal's Welcome

Dear Tara Hills Families,

I hope this message finds that you enjoyed a restful and joyful summer! As we prepare to begin the 2025-2026 school year, I am filled with gratitude and excitement to welcome you all back. This will be my fifth year as principal here at Tara Hills Elementary, and I want to thank you for the incredible support and partnership you have shown over the years. Together, we built a strong foundation focused on connection, community, and student success—and I am confident we will continue to grow from here. 

School starts on Tuesday, August 19 and it is a minimum day. Additional information such as the Parent Student Handbook will be shared soon with you. 

This year, we are thrilled to officially open our Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program and welcome our new TK teacher, Mr. Gideon Prior, to the Tara Hills team. We are also excited to have Anna Chavez joining us as our new Kindergarten teacher, Moria Manchouck as our new 4th/5th grade teacher, and Erika Paez as our new Cameron ESN Preschool teacher. Their passion and dedication to young learners will be a wonderful addition to our staff.

Our continued school partnership with Coach Vicky and PlayWorks will return to bring restorative support and safe play to our outdoor spaces and classrooms.

In academics, we are excited to introduce our new math curriculum, Eureka Math Squared, designed to build deep understanding and confidence in mathematical thinking. We are committed to aligning our instruction to support every student’s success.

We’re also proud to continue offering the arts and enrichment that make Tara Hills special. Ms. Alfaro will return to lead our art classes and Ms. Vlought will lead our band classes. 

Let’s continue to grow together as a community and support our students academically, creatively, and emotionally. I look forward to another joyful and productive year ahead.

With appreciation,

Shari Salinas
Principal
Tara Hills Elementary School