Principal's Message

By Ashley Groeneveld, Elm Middle School Principal

Greetings Elm Middle School Families, 

My name is Dr. Ashley L. Groeneveld, and I am honored to begin my seventh year serving as Principal of Elm Middle School. It is my pleasure to welcome our new and returning students, families, and staff to what promises to be an exciting 2026–2027 school year. We can't wait to partner with our students and families to create a highly collaborative learning environment that challenges every student to become the best version of themselves, a place where everyone belongs, everyone has a purpose, and every Cougar has the opportunity to make a difference. 

This year, we're raising the standard for what it means to be a Cougar. Every Cougar has a team, every Cougar has a role to play, and every day is game day. Together, we'll embrace a mindset rooted in teamwork, effort, growth, and pride. At Elm Middle School, we know success comes from showing up, supporting one another, and giving our best in everything we do. Whether we're solving complex problems in the classroom, performing on stage, serving our community, or representing Elm through athletics and activities, we're challenging every student to level up, embrace every opportunity, and make this our strongest season yet. 

Welcome to The League. Let's play with purpose!

Elm Middle School is a special place because it is where students from across the Elmwood Park community come together as one school, one team, and one community of learners.  Each student arrives at Elm Middle School with unique experiences, strengths, and perspectives. We are committed to creating a warm, collaborative environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered as they make the important transition from elementary school to middle school. 

At Elm Middle School, our entire staff is committed to providing every student with a nurturing environment where they can take risks as learners, feel both challenged and supported academically, and build meaningful relationships with others. Our students are at a critical stage in their lives as they discover who they are, develop confidence, and grow as learners and leaders. We want every student to feel connected to our school community. We encourage every student to become involved in at least one extracurricular activity where they can explore new interests, develop their talents, and build lasting connections. 

I look forward to communicating with you about all things Elm as the year unfolds through my weekly newsletter, the Cougar Courier, which you can expect in your inbox each Friday. Our home-school partnership is essential to our students' success, and I look forward to working alongside you throughout the year. Together, we'll encourage every Cougar to grow, lead, and reach their full potential. Here's to a year of learning with purpose, leading with character, and growing together as one team! 

One League. 
One Elm. 
All In.  

Most Sincerely,
Dr. Ashley L. Groeneveld 
Principal