I am Dr. Carmen J. Harris, newly appointed principal of Melrose Elementary School. When I learned about your rich history and the impact that you all have had in the community, I was excited to have an opportunity to partner with such an amazing school.

This year, as we move into the 24-25 school year, we will grow and continue to establish our strong practice of building a strong school community, as we “Mount Up Manatees”. We are empowering our students, staff and community as we move full-steam ahead! I want to share a little bit about myself. I am a native Floridian and have resided in Tampa for the past 9 years. I am married and the mother of 4 children, aged from 6 years to college graduate. I am a die-hard Florida State University fan (I graduated from there with a Bachelors of Education degree), so do not be surprised if you hear me shout “Go Noles.” I continued my learning at High Point University, with a Masters of Education in Leadership and closed out at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, with a Doctor of Education degree, in Curriculum and Instruction.

As a leader, I believe students have a right to the best educational experiences. To achieve this, I believe an equitable, diverse and rich learning environment will help create the space for this to happen. I look at all children as my own and believe the rewards, sacrifices and consequences needed to produce a “Harris” kid, are the same that should and will be applied to all students in the learning environment. I commit to being visible and accessible, with ears and heart open to collaborate with all stakeholders to produce these outcomes. Our families are an integral part of our journey. By partnering together, we can speak to our students’ experiences in and out of school and help our students make connections every day. Our teachers have an opportunity to serve our students and families through daily preparation and demonstration, in order to meet our students’ individual needs. Our community members are charged with the “ask” of rallying and supporting our schools and families with ongoing cheers, support and possible resources. Together we can get this mission accomplished because we don’t teach subjects, our subject is our students. My door is always open and I look forward to an amazing school year.

Sincerely,

Dr. Carmen J. Harris

Greetings,

I am Brandi Williams-Miller, and I am thrilled to serve as the Assistant Principal here at Melrose Elementary School.  I am a product of Pinellas County Schools and a proud graduate of Bethune Cookman University where I received my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. I received my master’s degree in Educational Leadership from National Louis University.  I have served as an Assistant Principal for 9 years prior to coming to Melrose, Literacy Coach for 3 years, and taught 1^st and 2^nd grade.

I am a transformational leader, committed to student success.  I will work collaboratively with all stakeholders to create a positive, impactful, and supportive learning environment for all scholars. I am truly honored to serve the students and families of Melrose Elementary and am excited for the work ahead!