Kennedy Elementary School

Hello Kennedy Families!

 

My name is Rene Lillebo, and I serve as the principal of Kennedy Elementary. The 2026–27 school year marks my fifth year as principal at Kennedy and my 25th year in education. Even after 25 years in education, I still feel the same excitement and anticipation for the beginning of a new school year that I did when I was just starting out. There is something special about welcoming students back to the building, seeing familiar faces, meeting new families, and beginning another year of learning and growth together.

 

At Kennedy, we believe that strong relationships are at the heart of student success. Our partnership with families is an important part of creating a positive school experience for every child. We want our families to feel welcomed, valued, and connected to our school community. Throughout the year, we look forward to working alongside you, communicating openly, celebrating successes, and supporting our students through challenges.

 

Kennedy Elementary is a K–5, three-section school with approximately 420 students, with class sizes typically ranging from 20–25 students. Our dedicated staff works together to create a learning environment where students are challenged academically, supported socially and emotionally, and encouraged to discover their individual strengths and interests.

 

Strong literacy skills continue to be an important focus at Kennedy. We are committed to providing a literacy-rich environment that develops students’ skills in reading, writing, speaking, and language. At the same time, we recognize that children learn in different ways and have different interests and needs. Our teachers and staff work hard to provide enrichment, intervention, individualized support, and a variety of learning experiences that help every student grow.

 

We also recognize the important role technology plays in education and in our students’ futures. We continue to thoughtfully incorporate technology into instruction to enhance learning, encourage creativity, and help students develop the skills they will need in an ever-changing world. Our goal is not simply to prepare students for success in school today, but to help them develop the knowledge, skills, confidence, and character they will need for tomorrow.

 

Regular attendance is another important piece of student success. Being at school consistently gives students the opportunity to build relationships, participate in classroom learning, practice new skills, and develop confidence as learners. Each school day matters, and we appreciate our families’ partnership in helping students make school attendance a priority whenever possible.

 

At Kennedy, we believe that learning extends beyond academics. Throughout the school year, students will have opportunities to develop positive character traits, practice social-thinking skills, build friendships, solve problems, manage emotions, and learn how to be responsible and respectful members of our school community. We call this "The Gov Way."  When you are at Kennedy you will see and hear "The Gov way talked about and demonstrated building-wide. We want our students to leave Kennedy not only as strong learners, but also as kind, confident, capable individuals who are prepared to make a positive difference in the world around them.

 

We also encourage families to become involved in our school community in whatever way works best for you. Whether it is volunteering in the classroom, supporting PTO, attending school events, communicating with your child’s teacher, or simply encouraging your child at home, family involvement makes a difference. When schools and families work together, our students benefit.

 

Most importantly, we want every student who walks through the doors of Kennedy Elementary to know that they belong here. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming, and positive school environment where every child can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Our staff cares deeply about our students, and we are excited about the opportunities that the 2026–27 school year will bring.

 

The Kennedy staff is ready to welcome our students back and begin another great year of learning, laughter, growth, and memories. Thank you for entrusting us with your children and for being an important part of the Kennedy Elementary family.