Administration

Mrs. Samantha Cucu

Hello, Mitchell Community, 

I am excited to join the Mitchell Community in a new way! As a current Mitchell parent and building leader in the Ann Arbor Public Schools, I look forward to supporting the Mitchell community through the many perspectives and experiences I will bring to her role. 

I have worked in the Ann Arbor Public Schools since 2011. I have served in many roles within the district, including special education paraprofessional, middle school teacher, elementary school Intervention Specialist, and Assistant Principal at King Elementary. Last school year, I served as Interim Principal at Thurston Elementary. My education includes a B.S in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University and a M.S. in Educational Leadership from Concordia University.

During my time in the AAPS, I have served on the district’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports Committee and Social-Emotional and Wellness Team. I have also been a proactive advocate for equitable teaching and learning, social-emotional learning and well-being structures and supports, restorative practices, effective communication and student engagement. 

My leadership focus is on the social-emotional health and wellness of students and cultivating inclusive, equitable environments. The philosophy that the grown-ups in a child’s life are critical partners and that each child must feel seen, heard, and not only understood but empathized with has led my work. It is my mission to affirm and value the cultural identity of each child. This provides a learning environment where students can feel comfortable as risk-takers, are able to express themselves each day, and can meet the high expectations that they set for themselves.

I look forward to working with students, teachers, staff, parents, and each member of the community to continue to provide children with the opportunity to grow in their enthusiasm for learning and life, exploration of their interests, and understanding of the world around us with a caring and reflective outlook.

Mrs. ShaRhonda Peoples

Dear Mitchell Staff, Students, Families

It is with great excitement and a deep sense of purpose that I introduce myself as the new Assistant Principal of Mitchell Elementary School. I am honored to co-lead this exceptional school community. I look forward to working alongside each and every one of you to support the social, emotional, and academic development of our students. 

As an educator and leader, I believe that a positive school culture, strong relationships, and high expectations are the foundation of a thriving environment. At Mitchell Elementary School, we are committed to fostering a community that is a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and an engaging learning environment where all students feel included, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential. As we embark on this journey together, I encourage a thriving community that works together, has open communication, and works toward the common goal of student success. I am committed to ensuring that all students receive encouragement, guidance, and academic challenges they need to grow into confident learners. 

To achieve this, we will focus on collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for student success and excellence. Our teachers and staff are committed and dedicated professionals who bring expertise, passion, and care into the classroom every day. I look forward to working alongside them to support student achievement. 

To our families: your partnership is essential to your students' success and I welcome your engagement, involvement, and insights as we work together to make the best possible educational experiences for our children. 

To our students: I am thrilled at the chance to meet each and every one of you, learn more about you, and witness all of the greatness you will transpire. Your hard work, kindness, and curiosity are what makes our school so special. I look forward to supporting and collaborating with you as we continue this road of excellence at Mitchell. Together, we will create an environment where we all can grow as kind, responsible, and resilient individuals. 

I look forward to future conversations and working collaboratively to build on the strengths of our school community.