MPS hires three new principals

Three new principals – leaders for Milwaukee Public Schools’ Elm Creative Arts School, Fairview School and Silver Spring School – have been approved by the Milwaukee Board of School Directors.

“These are exactly the caliber of people our students need to lead achievement,” Superintendent Gregory Thornton said.

Mateba Harris is now set to lead Elm Creative Arts, an arts-focused program at 900 W. Walnut Street on the city’s near north side. Currently the assistant principal in charge at the school, Dr. Harris previously served as an assistant principal at MPS’ Alexander Hamilton High School. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison – and two master’s degrees and a doctorate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

“My vision for Elm Creative Arts is that by 2016, all students will perform at or above grade level in all academic areas, exhibit a deep appreciation for the arts and demonstrate strong character,” Dr. Harris said.

She started working as a special education teacher in Milwaukee Public Schools in 2000.

Fairview’s assistant principal in charge, Joseph Hartlaub, was tapped to lead the school, an MPS charter program on the southwest side at 6500 W. Kinnickinnic River Parkway.

Hartlaub has a bachelor’s degree from Mount Mercy College and a master’s degree from American University in Washington, D.C.

“To allow every student the opportunity to reach his or her potential is my mission – and will continue to be the mission of Fairview under my leadership,” he said. Hartlaub’s first teaching job was at Oak Park Elementary in Aurora, Ill. in 1984.

Janice Odom, currently assistant principal at Westside Academy II, is set to take the principal position at Silver Spring, on the northeast side at 5131 N. Green Bay Avenue. Odom, who is replacing the retiring Winifred Tidmore, has a bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University; master’s degrees from Cardinal Stritch and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; and is working toward a Ph.D. from UWM.

She said her goal is “to continue to uphold the high standards set by Ms. Tidmore and the wonderful staff at the school.”

Odom’s first teaching job was at MPS’ Grantosa Drive Elementary in 1995.

The Board is expected to weigh additional principal appointments next month.