Hello Rice Families,
Welcome to the 2023-24 school year. I am honored to be given the opportunity to work with the incredible staff at Rice as we teach, guide, and learn from your children. Thank you for this gift!
My heart has been at Rice Elementary since it opened in 2007. I was a part of the team who opened Rice. I taught second grade here for five years. The things I loved most included the feeling of belonging in the Rice and Wellington communities, the support for all students, families and staff members, and the opportunity for everyone to grow while having fun! My own daughter experienced all of these magical things when she attended Rice. She’s now a senior at CSU...but I’m not old! Well, I am beginning my 28th year in education. I have taught kindergarten, second, and third grades over the course of my career. I was an instructor in the Center for Educator Preparation at Colorado State University for ten years where I taught and was an instructional coach for student teachers in schools across Poudre School District and beyond. I continue my work with CSU as an adjunct instructor in their Principal Licensure Program. I’m extremely excited to be back for my third year at Rice serving and learning as the assistant principal at this amazing school!
Our staff is committed to supporting your children in reaching their full potential as individuals. Students are given ample opportunities to find success academically as well as socially. We see every student as a whole child with experiences beyond the school walls. We foster a sense of safety and belonging where your children are able to be themselves, be honored for who they are, and continue to accelerate as valuable members of society and brilliant learners and leaders.
I truly look forward to connecting with you in the days and weeks to come. Please know, I am an e-mail, phone call, or sidewalk chat away if there is anything I can do to help or support you.
With much excitement and gratitude,
Jody Drager
Assistant Principal
970-488-8714 (office)
970-217-2235 (cell)