Dear Fireside community,

It is my great honor to serve as your new principal at Fireside Elementary School and to welcome you to this exceptional place where children learn, explore, and grow. We are intentional every day to our mission - Fireside is an inclusive community that fosters a love of learning.

The Fireside Falcons are truly a community of people committed to supporting each other and every child’s development. We celebrate the diversity of our student and family population, and we draw on each others’ strengths to provide engaging and educational experiences that meet students’ needs and that bring our community together. 

Our incredible teachers and staff at Fireside build strong and impactful relationships with their students, showing their care for them as individuals and as scholars. Many of our teachers have been an integral part of Fireside for years, most have advanced degrees, and all have esteemed and unique experiences that contribute to our rich tapestry. 

Our Fireside team is committed to rigorous academic programming, authentic hands-on learning experiences, innovative and adaptive instructional approaches, and attention to students' social, emotional, and physical well-being. Our aim is to equip every child with lifelong skills, habits for learning, and a solid character foundation based on mutual respect.

Fireside is a special school that is a central gathering place for the neighborhood and community. Our commitment to our PRIDE values - Politeness, Responsibility, Integrity, Determination, Empathy, and Excellence - help us foster a safe, warm, and welcoming environment where all children thrive.

As one of the newest Falcons, I enthusiastically welcome you to the 2024-2025 school year! 

Sincerely,

Kristen Smetzer, Principal

kristen.smetzer@bvsd.org