After earning a psychology degree from Mary Washington College, followed by a master’s in curriculum and instruction from George Mason University, Rowe later received her principal’s license from Colorado State University.
Now serving as principal at Foundations Academy, Rowe finds joy in helping students and staff grow. "Making school a great experience for students and families while supporting educators in their growth is the most amazing thing," she says. "Seeing students grow academically and socially, especially through our Moral Focus program, is incredible."
Rowe’s favorite Moral Focus virtue is integrity. "It really is all of the virtues rolled into one," she explains. "The fact that our kids get to learn about integrity starting in kindergarten is amazing."
She is motivated by the everyday interactions she has with students and staff. "Whether it's giving high fives and making kids smile or helping educators enjoy what they do and feel supported, that's what drives me."
Her leadership style is focused around being approachable and available to her team. "My office door is always open unless I’m in a meeting. I want people to feel like they can pop in if they need something or just want to chat over chocolate,” she says.
For Rowe, building relationships with both staff and students is key. "The staff keeps me going," she says. "Just being present and having conversations about what’s going on in their lives helps me stay connected."
Outside of school, Rowe enjoys going on adventures with her family, exploring places like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and hiking through state parks. As a mom of three boys, she embraces the fun and chaos of being a "boy mom" and cherishes family time. On more relaxed days, she loves to unwind with a movie.
Quick Facts:
- Rowe enjoys watching football, listening to Dave Matthews Band, and eating her mom’s spaghetti.
- Her favorite animal is a dog—she has one at home along with a cat—but she also loves watching pelicans in the wild.
- Her favorite quote: "There is no such thing as a small act of kindness." – Scott Adams
- In college, Rowe started an a cappella group and even recorded an album!
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About Foundations Academy
Foundations Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Brighton, Colorado, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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