Principal's Message

A Note from Dr. Sugar

Dear Kenter Families,

I would like to warmly welcome you to the 2023-2024 school year!

It is my sincere honor and privilege to work with you in pursuit of our shared goals. Kenter Canyon Elementary Charter enjoys a consistent history of academic and cultural merit - a direct result of the partnership between school and parents to provide a diversity of experiences for all students. I am proud to lead a school with such a rich tradition of education!  

Kenter faculty and staff established a strong foundation for academic success for all students. Our dedicated teachers work tirelessly to ensure that each child’s talent has been discovered and blossomed. Each educator plays a role in many initiatives and daily functions of our school including professional development, high quality instructional delivery, governing, and social-emotional climate. Parental support is the organic and inseparable part of our school. Together, our teachers, parents, enrichment professionals, and support personnel create the unique character of Kenter and build treasured experiences for our students.

As a principal with thirty-five-year career in public schools, my focus has always been on quality of instruction. As a National Board-certified teacher, I guide and support teachers who work with children of diverse ability, from gifted to special needs. I work collaboratively with all stakeholders to prioritize needs and provide resources for students. To build students’ emotional strength, I embrace principles of peer-to-peer collaboration, empathy, and conflict resolution to nurture resilience and advance citizenship and leadership skills. 

Kenter Canyon Charter Elementary is a cherished and energized learning community that prepares all students to become successful lifelong learners in our competitive 21st century world.  Together, parents and educators guide our children’s growth with these watchwords: “Be safe, be respectful, be responsible, and always be learning”.  Through close and collegial partnership with everyone associated with Kenter, I am confident we will continue to create environment that encourages students’ self-realization.

I look forward to a successful, fun, academically focused, and positively energized school year. I always want to hear your happy news, bright ideas, deep questions, and honest concerns. Please feel free to share.

Yours Sincerely,

Irina Sugar, Ed.D.