Welcome to Polk Elementary

It is an honor and a privilege to welcome you to Polk Elementary School and to serve as your principal. Polk is a special place because of the people who make up our school community—our students, families, teachers, support staff, and administrators. Together, we share a commitment to creating a school where every child feels valued, supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.

As principal, my foremost responsibility is to ensure that the individual needs of each and every student are recognized and addressed. Every child brings unique strengths, experiences, interests, and learning needs to school each day. Our goal is to know our students well, provide the academic and social-emotional support they need, celebrate their accomplishments, and continually look for ways to help them grow. We want our students to leave Polk not only prepared for their next educational experience, but also equipped with the skills, confidence, character, and resilience they need to be successful in life.

I am fortunate to work alongside an incredibly dedicated staff. Every member of the Polk team is committed to student success—both in school and in life. Our teachers and support staff work collaboratively to provide engaging learning experiences, respond to individual student needs, build positive relationships, and create a safe and welcoming environment where children can thrive. We believe that when adults work together with a shared purpose and high expectations, our students benefit.

Family partnership is an essential part of that work. Parents and families know their children better than anyone, and your voice matters. I welcome your questions, ideas, concerns, and feedback. Open and respectful communication helps us better understand our students and strengthens our ability to support them. Whether you have a question, a suggestion, or simply want to share something that will help us better serve your child, I encourage you to reach out.

My commitment to education began in the classroom, where I taught Chemistry and Biology at Truman High School in Taylor—the same school I attended as a student. I later served as a School Improvement Coordinator, working with educators and administrators on curriculum development, professional learning, school improvement, and student achievement initiatives. I joined Dearborn Heights School District No. 7 as an Assistant Principal at O. W. Best Middle School and have been fortunate to serve this district in several leadership roles, including school and district administration.

My educational journey includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Eastern Michigan University, a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from the University of Michigan, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. While I am proud of my educational experiences and professional accomplishments, I believe that some of the most important learning happens through relationships, collaboration, reflection, and the daily experiences we share with our students and families.

Outside of school, some of my most important roles are those of wife, mother, and grandmother. My husband, Richard, and I are blessed with two wonderful daughters, two amazing grandchildren, and a couple of dogs who keep life interesting! I also enjoy gardening, reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

I am proud to be part of the Polk Elementary family. I look forward to continuing to build strong relationships with our students and families, listening to your ideas and feedback, and working together to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

Please know that my door is always open. If there is anything I can do to better support your child or your family, I invite you to contact me.

Dr. Claudia Portscheller
Principal, Polk Elementary School
Dearborn Heights School District No. 7
Phone: 313-203-5413
Email: [email protected]

Thank you!