Administration

Natasha L. Wade - Principal

Natasha Wade

I attended Longwood College for undergraduate studies in Liberal Arts. I received my Masters in Special Education from Longwood University and my Post-Masters in Educational Leadership was obtained at Virginia Commonwealth University. I have been in education for 20 years. Of my 20 years in education,1 year served in Prince Edward County as a teacher of students with Emotional Disabilities. The other 19 years of my career have been in Chesterfield County Public Schools. During my time in Chesterfield, I have served as a teacher of students with Emotional disabilities, Specific Learning disabilities, Autism, Intellectual disabilities, and physical impairments. I have also served as the Coordinator of the Intensive Day Program for students with severe emotional and mental impairments. Most recently I served as the Associate Principal at Falling Creek Elementary. This is my third year as  the proud principal of Salem Church Elementary.

I am the dedicated wife to my husband, Horace and the “Mommy” of my 9 year old daughter, Christina and an infant daughter, Hazel. I love dogs and have a Yorkie who thinks she’s a person and a lab who is huge but thinks she is small enough to sit in my lap. When I have free moments I am busy spending quality time with my family cooking, exploring, and enjoying the simple things. 

I always strive to guide the youth I encounter on the trail of becoming strong citizens of great character. Partnering with parents in providing their child with the most effective and positive educational experience is my mission. I have a love for children and find happiness in doing for others. I am thrilled to be a part of the Salem Church Elementary community. Salem has a rich history of phenomenal students, teachers, and families and I am delighted to be a “STAR”! 

Mrs. Emily McCracken - Assistant Principal

Emily McCracken

I am thrilled to serve another year as your Assistant Principal at Salem Church Elementary School! Having grown up in Chesterfield County, I have a deep affection for the people and community we serve.

I started my education journey at the University of Richmond for my Undergraduate degree, earning my Bachelors in Psychology and Elementary Education.  I returned to UofR to pursue Masters Degrees in Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership. Go Spiders!

I’ve had the privilege of working in Chesterfield County as a classroom teacher, a Dean, and now serving Salem as your proud Assistant Principal. While teaching and leading, I worked with students of various needs. I absolutely love working with children who need extra love and support. I truly believe that all students are capable of success when given the right opportunities. My goal is to foster an engaging learning environment where students develop positive social skills, are comfortable taking academic risks, and celebrate their accomplishments in and out of the classroom. All of our Salem students should reach for the STARS.

My free time is spent with my husband and our two kids.  We love to get outside and enjoy all that Richmond has to offer while creating memories. Family is so very important to me, and I absolutely love being a wife and mother. What a beautiful blessing children are!

I look forward to continuing to serve our Salem community and partner with you all to help our students find success. Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you need anything at all! 

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