Principal

My name is Dr. Tabitha Harrell, and I am absolutely thrilled to join the Hazelwood School District and the McNair Elementary family as your new principal. It is with great excitement and gratitude that I step into this role, ready to serve and lead alongside an incredible team of educators, students, families, and community members.

As I enter my 19th year in education, I reflect on the journey that has shaped the educator—and person—I am today. Over the years, I’ve served in a variety of roles, including building aide, classroom teacher, reading specialist, intervention coordinator, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) coordinator, and assistant principal. Each position has given me a deeper understanding of how to support students holistically and create environments where both children and adults thrive.

I am also a proud wife and mother of two amazing children—my daughter, Taylor, and my son, Kingston. Being a parent enriches my perspective as an educator and reminds me daily of the importance of creating learning spaces where every child feels seen, valued, and inspired.

My “why” is rooted in the belief that every child deserves access to a high-quality, equitable education in a learning environment that honors who they are. I am committed to ensuring that all students are supported by compassionate, skilled educators in a system that removes barriers and fosters success. This is important, meaningful, and BIG work. I believe deeply in the power of collaboration, as many hands make light work. We are in this together.

As we prepare for an exciting school year ahead, I am filled with hope and anticipation for all that we will accomplish together. I look forward to building strong relationships with each of you, and to making this year— and many more to come—truly great. Wishing you a wonderful start to the year!

Warm regards, Dr. Tabitha Harrell Principal, McNair Elementary