AP CORNER

Meet Rachel Torres Pickett, Assistant Principal

Welcome Letter from the Assistant Principal
Witter Ranch Elementary School

Dear Witter Ranch Community,
As we begin another exciting school year at Witter Ranch Elementary, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving this incredible community as Assistant Principal. As I begin my second year as the Assistant Principal here at Witter Ranch, I am honored to continue serving this incredible school community and to be part of 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 in Natomas with my husband and our two wonderful boys, ages 3 and 1. 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 third 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.

Over the past year, I have had the privilege of getting to know our students, staff, and families, and I am continually inspired by the strong sense of community that makes Witter Ranch such a special place. I look forward to building upon the relationships we have established and continuing our work together to support every student's growth and success. 

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