Dear Ford Heights Community,

It is with great pride, gratitude, and excitement that I welcome you as the Principal of Cottage  Grove Upper Grade Center. As both an educator and a proud product of this community, I  am deeply honored to serve in this role and lead a school with a rich tradition of excellence,  resilience, and achievement. 

Cottage Grove’s success has always been rooted in the collective dedication of our  students, families, teachers, staff, and community partners. Together, we have created a  culture that values academic excellence, personal responsibility, and lifelong learning. I am  committed to building upon that strong foundation by supporting rigorous instruction,  meaningful enrichment opportunities, competitive athletics, performing arts programs, and  extracurricular activities that help our students discover their passions and develop their  talents. 

At Cottage Grove, we believe that every student can achieve success when provided with  high expectations, strong support systems, and opportunities to grow. Our dedicated  teachers and staff work tirelessly to create a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where all students feel valued, challenged, and empowered to reach their  fullest potential. 

As we move forward, my vision for the future is clear: to make Cottage Grove Upper Grade  Center a premier learning community where every student is prepared to excel  academically, lead with confidence, and compete successfully in an ever-changing world.  We will accomplish this by strengthening instructional practices, integrating innovative  learning experiences, expanding opportunities for student leadership, and fostering  meaningful partnerships with families and the broader community. Our goal is not only to  prepare students for high school but also to equip them with the critical thinking,  communication, and problem-solving skills necessary for future success in college, careers,  and life. 

Strong relationships remain at the heart of everything we do. When students feel connected  to their school, supported by caring adults, and encouraged by their families, they are more  likely to thrive. Through collaboration, open communication, and a shared commitment to  excellence, we can ensure that every child receives the resources and support needed to  succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. 

As a proud member of the Ford Heights community, I am truly honored to serve as the  instructional leader of Cottage Grove Upper Grade Center. I look forward to working  alongside our students, families, staff, and community stakeholders as we continue to build  a culture of excellence, celebrate our achievements, and create a future filled with  opportunity for all. 

Together, we will inspire excellence, nurture growth, and empower the next generation of  leaders. 

With gratitude and commitment,

Dr. Sharon P. Rivers
Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction and Principal at Cottage Grove