Mrs. Michelle Leonard

Elementary Principal/Lead Teacher

Professional Biography
I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education from Westfield State University. I spent my first four years teaching at William E. Norris Elementary School in Southampton, MA. After my second child was born, I took time away from teaching to raise my children. During these four years, I knew I would not return to public education, as I felt the Lord calling me to teach at a small Christian school that just opened. Two years after the school's inception, I joined the CCS family, not knowing that it would be an incredible journey for seventeen years and counting. As I embark on my eighteenth year in the community I love, I am blessed to serve as the Elementary Principal and Lead Teacher.

Personal Biography
My husband Dan and I are the proud parents of three wonderful children. Our youngest is a junior at CCS. Despite our oldest living in Boston and our middle child finishing his last year at Palm Beach Atlantic University, we always make time for each other. We cherish our moments together, whether at our home in the woods or during our travels to our favorite destinations, Maine and Florida. Apart from family time, I find joy in hiking, kayaking, and indulging in a good book or Podcast.

Educational Philosophy
As an elementary teacher for twenty-one years, I sought to equip my students to think deeply, problem-solve, and gain skills that would translate into life-long learning. Whenever possible, I strove to bring the concepts alive by creating hands-on learning opportunities and applying them to real life. Because God fearfully and wonderfully made each student and each child is an image-bearer with unique gifts given by their Creator, I have been led to imbed various learning styles within my teaching. It is my desire that all students come away from their years at CCS with a love of learning and, most importantly, a genuine love for their Savior.

Favorite Verse
Galatians 2:20: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.