Serving students in 10th Grade, 9th Grade last names P-Z
Hello Teddies!
I'm Lisa Purcell, Assistant Principal at Roosevelt. 2022-23 marks my second year at Roosevelt, but my first as an Assistant Principal. Previously I was the Advanced Academics Coordinator. I feel really lucky to be named an Assistant Principal in a community I've already grown to love.
I grew up in the Twin Cities, but took a circular route to end up back here-- I taught in the public schools of New York City, Boston, and Salt Lake City before returning after 20 years. I was also fortunate to be awarded a Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching, which enabled me to spend time living in New Zealand and learning about how they teach indigenous history. I've been lucky enough to work in a number of inspiring communities and I'm excited that I get to bring the lessons I learned to my work here at Roosevelt. Officially, I oversee 10th grade students plus 9th graders with last names P-Z and support teachers in the following departments: Social Studies, Math, ESL, English, Media, Arts, World Languages, and RISE.
I initially earned my Bachelor's degree in History from Hope College, then a Master's degree from Harvard University in Risk & Prevention, and another Master's degree from the University of Utah in Education, Leadership, & Policy. In addition to having my administrative license, I am licensed to teach Social Studies and English as a Second Language.
I live here in South Minneapolis with my wife and step-daughter who is in high school; when I'm not at Roosevelt events you might find me at another MPS high school down the road, attending her sports and activities. I love most things outdoors-- camping, running, nordic and downhill skiing, and this summer I'll do my third triathlon. I'm not particularly fast, but I love having a challenging goal to push myself.
I look forward to meeting you! Until then, if you need to reach me, please email me at Lisa.Purcell@mpls.k12.mn.us.
Here's to a great year!
Lisa