AP CORNER
Meet Rachel Torres Pickett, Assistant Principal
Welcome Letter from the Assistant Principal
Witter Ranch Elementary School
Dear Witter Ranch Community,
It is with great excitement and gratitude that I join the Witter Ranch Elementary team as your new Assistant Principal! I am honored to continue serving in Natomas Unified in a proud AVID school that reflects our district’s commitment to college and career readiness, equity, and academic excellence for all students.
I am a proud product of Natomas Unified. I grew up in the community, was a student of Natomas Unified, and I currently reside here with my husband and our two wonderful children, a terrific 2 year old and a new addition to our family born in February this year. My educational journey began at Cal Poly Pomona, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies, followed by a Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Sacramento State and an administrative credential through the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE).
I began my teaching career right here in Natomas Unified and am now entering my second year as an assistant principal in the district. It is truly an honor to serve the same community that helped shape me into who I am today.
My mission as an educational leader is grounded in the belief that everything we do must come from a place of love, unity, and cultural responsiveness. I am passionate about ensuring that every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to succeed. To support that mission, I strongly believe in the use of restorative justice practices, PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), and equity-driven instruction that meets the diverse needs of our learners.
As a school that proudly implements AVID strategies, Witter Ranch holds a special place in my heart. My own experience with AVID has shown me the power of college and career readiness in transforming student lives, and I am committed to deepening that culture of high expectations, support, and achievement.
I look forward to partnering with our staff, students, and families in CARE, Considerate, Achieving, Responsible, and Encouraging along with growing my capacity as an educator and lifelong learner.
With appreciation and excitement,
Rachel Torres Pickett
Assistant Principal
Witter Ranch Elementary School