At Impact | Salish Sea Elementary community is the heart of everything we do. Few stories reflect that more than Liz Rodriguez’s journey.
Many of our families already know Liz. She was part of the Salish Sea community from the very beginning, opening the school in 2021 as a Kindergarten teacher. Since then, she has grown alongside Impact, first serving as an Instructional Coach, then Assistant Principal, and now returning “home” as Principal.
Liz has an unwavering commitment to scholars and families. As she steps into this role, we’re excited to share more about her vision, leadership, and what this next chapter means for the Salish Sea community.
Getting to Know Principal Liz Rodriguez
You’ve served in so many important roles at Impact – from Kindergarten teacher to Instructional Coach to principal. What does it mean to return to SSE in this new role?
Returning to Salish Sea Elementary feels like coming home. I was here when we first opened our doors in 2021 as a Kindergarten teacher, and this community has held a special place in my heart ever since. While my journey has taken me to other schools and leadership roles across the Impact network, the opportunity to return to SSE as Principal is a full-circle moment. It gives me the honor of now graduating my students from 2021 and sending them on to middle school and beyond.
As you step into this role, what excites you most about leading SSE?
I am most excited about the people. The warmth, kindness, and curiosity of the SSE community are truly unique. I’m also deeply motivated by the school vision we are building together – creating a culture where we show up prepared, work with purpose, invest in growth, and model excellence every single day for our scholars. We know our scholars are capable of achieving and exceeding expectations, and I am excited to get to work supporting my team in reaching those goals.
What is your vision for SSE over the next few years?
I envision our school being one of the best, if not the best, schools in Seattle for students to learn, experience joy, and engage in rigorous learning during their foundational years. As we grow, we will continue to seek out opportunities for enrichment and community-based partnerships to give our scholars new experiences. I see a community that exudes pride – from students to staff to families – in what it means to be an SSE Orca. A place where everyone feels a deep sense of belonging and is truly seen.
How does your experience as a classroom teacher shape how you lead a school?
Because of my own challenging experiences as a student, I became a teacher to ensure every child has a trusted adult rooting for them. That “teacher’s heart” stays with me as a leader. I know that adult culture drives scholar outcomes; when we model consistency, kindness, and high expectations as a staff, our scholars rise to become the equity-driven leaders we know they can be. Being in classrooms every day allows me to stay connected to the work and ensures our entire team is committed to creating this environment and supporting one another – together.
What message do you want families to hear as you step into this role?
As a mom of two daughters, Sabrina and Scarlet, this mission is deeply personal. I want every SSE family to feel the same confidence and pride in sending their children here as I do. I am a leader who is present, honest, and deeply invested in the growth of both our staff and our scholars.
What are some of your favorite memories from your time at SSE?
The traditions are what stay with me – the energy of a Hallway Holler, the quiet magic of reading buddies, and the joy of watching our first group of Kindergarteners begin their journey here in 2021. I will never forget our very first family gathering on the steps of SSE with our founding team and the excitement that echoed through the atrium. We’ve built something really special, and I’m excited to continue these traditions.