Principal's Message
Hello Sierra Roadrunner Families,
Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year! I am excited to introduce myself as your new Principal. It's a true honor to join this incredible Sierra school community, and I look forward to supporting our students, staff, and families in a year full of learning, growth, and success.
This school year marks the beginning of my 33rd year with the Lancaster School District, a district I am proud to call home. I have spent my entire career dedicated to serving the students and families of this community, first as a classroom teacher for 25 years (grades K–6) at Mariposa and El Dorado schools, 6 years as an Instructional Coach at El Dorado, and as an assistant principal at Sunnydale. These experiences have deepened my passion for education and strengthened my belief in the power of collaboration between schools and families.
At Sierra, my first priority is to build systems and a school culture where every student feels safe, known, supported, and inspired to learn. I believe that great schools are built on strong relationships, high expectations, and a shared commitment to doing what is best for children.
Student safety and well-being will always be at the center of our work. Every child deserves to come to school each day feeling secure, respected, valued, and ready to learn. Creating that environment is not simply a priority—it is a responsibility embraced by the entire Roadrunner community.
I also believe that strong schools are built through strong partnerships with families. Open, honest, and consistent communication creates trust and allows us to work together in meaningful ways. Whether you volunteer, attend school events, celebrate your child’s successes, ask questions, or simply stay connected to your child’s learning, your partnership matters. When families and educators work together, our students thrive.
Above all, Sierra must be a place where academic excellence and equity go hand in hand. We will hold high expectations for every student while recognizing that every learner is unique. Our commitment is to understand our students as individuals and provide the instruction, support, challenge, and opportunities they need to reach their fullest potential. Every learner deserves to be seen, challenged, and supported—and every child should leave our classrooms knowing that they are capable of achieving great things.
As we move into this school year, I am excited about what we can accomplish together. Our work is bigger than test scores, programs, or initiatives. It is about creating a school where children feel they belong, teachers feel empowered to make a difference, and families know they have a true partner in their child’s education.
Please know that my door is always open. I welcome your questions, ideas, and feedback, and I look forward to listening, learning, and working alongside you. Together, we can create a school community where every student is safe, every family is connected, and every learner has the opportunity to thrive.
Here’s to a wonderful year ahead, and to the incredible possibilities that await our students!
Warmly,
Mrs.Melissa Blanchard
Principal, Sierra Elementary School