A Message from the Principal
Dear Disston Family,
I am incredibly excited to join the Hamilton Disston School community as the next Principal. Hamilton
Disston is a school steeped in tradition and community. It is an exciting time to be joining the Disston
community as Disston will be celebrating its 100 year anniversary this Spring. Together we will ensure
Disston’s success for the next 100 years!
My name is Mrs. Michele Hutz. For the last 5 years I served as the Assistant Principal at Stephen Decatur
Elementary. Prior to that, I was a Middle Years Math teacher and School Based Teacher Leader. I earned a
Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Holy Family University, a Master’s degree in Counseling
from Holy Family University and my Administrative Certificate from Cabrini.
It is my belief that what is best for students’ academically, socially, and emotionally must always be at the
forefront of every decision we make. It is our collective responsibility to ensure our students are well cared
for and prepared for what lies ahead.
I have always been committed to ensuring that all students succeed by fostering a rigorous and relevant
learning environment. As a school leader, I know that it is essential to identify and disrupt inequity in our
schools. By continuing the equity work begun by the School District of Philadelphia, I am invested in creating
an environment in which it is understood that if even one fails, we all fail but where one succeeds, we all
succeed.
In my short time as the Principal, I have already experienced the engagement, commitment and passion of
the Disston community. I look forward to establishing and continually building relationships with our
students, parents, staff and the community. Thank you again for your support. I am looking forward to an
outstanding school year.
We are DISSTON! Hear us ROAR!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Michele Hutz
Principal
Our Vision and Mission
The vision of Hamilton Disston Elementary School is to produce high-functioning, well-rounded individuals that make significant contributions to society.
Disston Elementary School’s mission is to provide all children in grades K-8 the educational opportunity, reinforcement, and enrichment resources to reach proficient and above levels in reading, math, and all other subject areas. We pride our success in providing our students with highly qualified educators that are specifically recruited according to educational background, experience, and area of certification through site-based selection to address the needs of our students. We believe that a positive and caring atmosphere helps provide students with the self-confidence necessary to achieve in all academic areas as well as in the community. We strive to create an environment where each child is responsible for his/her work and actions.
This will help provide each student at Disston Elementary with the necessary skills to enable them to embark on their future with pride and determination in addition to becoming a model for their communities. Also, our expectation is to afford students the ability to achieve success and serve as a positive representative of our efforts in future school placements and other encounters.
