Holder Elementary

It’s with great excitement and gratitude that I welcome you to the 2026–27 school year at Holder School. As I begin my second year as principal, I’m honored to continue serving this exceptional learning community and building upon the relationships and accomplishments we celebrated together last year. Having previously served as principal of Reid School and as a teacher for Holder’s preschool students with special needs, Holder will always hold a special place in my heart. With more than twenty years of experience in education, I remain passionate about creating a school environment where excellence, equity, and empathy guide everything we do.

Holder School, home of the Hawks, is a vibrant community where we believe every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full academic, social, and emotional potential. We recognize that each student brings unique talents, strengths, and perspectives to our campus, and we are committed to nurturing those gifts in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Our dedicated teachers and staff work collaboratively to ensure that every student feels valued, connected, and inspired to learn.

At Holder, we’re committed to providing a well-rounded educational experience that challenges students academically while fostering creativity, character, and critical thinking. We believe that learning extends beyond the classroom and that students thrive when they are encouraged to explore their interests, work collaboratively, and persevere through challenges. Our goal is to help students become confident learners, thoughtful problem-solvers, and compassionate members of their community.

Holder Hawks proudly embody the qualities of being Honorable, Accountable, Welcoming, Kind, and Scholarly. These values guide our daily interactions and help create a positive school culture where students are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning, show kindness to others, and strive for personal excellence. When students and staff share high expectations and work together toward common goals, amazing things happen.

As we begin this new school year, I’m especially excited to see all that our Hawks will accomplish. Whether in the classroom, on the stage, on the field, or through acts of leadership and service, our students continue to impress us with their talents, determination, and growth. I look forward to celebrating their achievements and watching them soar to new heights throughout the year.

I feel fortunate to work alongside such a dedicated and caring staff and to partner with our supportive families and community. Together, we will continue to build upon Holder’s tradition of excellence while creating meaningful opportunities for every student to succeed.

I look forward to celebrating our students’ accomplishments in academics, citizenship, the arts, athletics, and beyond during our flag ceremonies, awards assemblies, and school events throughout the year. Thank you for your partnership and support. I’m excited for another outstanding year with our Holder Hawks!

At Holder School, we’re committed to providing meaningful learning experiences that challenge, engage, and inspire every student. Our instructional practices are aligned with California State Standards and designed to ensure all students develop the academic, social, and emotional skills necessary for success in school and beyond. Through high expectations, supportive relationships, and engaging instruction, we strive to cultivate confident learners who are curious, resilient, and motivated to achieve their personal best.

A strong foundation in literacy remains a priority at Holder. Students are encouraged to expand their academic vocabulary, strengthen their reading comprehension, think critically, and communicate effectively through both speaking and writing. We also continue to emphasize the importance of cursive writing. Students in grades 3–6 will learn, practice, and be expected to use cursive writing as an important tool for written communication and academic success.

We’re excited to continue offering enriching Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) opportunities for all students. Through experiences in dance, theatre arts, and choral music, students have opportunities to explore their creativity, build confidence, collaborate with their peers, and develop talents that enhance their overall educational experience.

Last year, Holder implemented a new History-Social Science curriculum that encourages students to explore communities, cultures, historical perspectives, and civic responsibility. This year, we look forward to piloting a new math curriculum designed to deepen conceptual understanding, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop mathematical reasoning, helping students become confident and capable thinkers.

These instructional priorities will be integrated throughout every classroom and grade level as we continue preparing students for future success. At Holder, we believe that students learn best when they feel safe, supported, and connected. Our dedicated staff works diligently to create a positive learning environment where every child feels valued and empowered to grow.

As Holder Hawks, we proudly model and promote the values of being Honorable, Accountable, Welcoming, Kind, and Scholarly. These traits guide our daily interactions and help create a school culture where students are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning, show compassion for others, and strive for excellence in all they do.

We look forward to an outstanding year of learning, growth, and achievement with our Holder Hawks!

Ms. Maria Garcia is delighted to begin her second year as principal of Holder School for the 2026–27 school year. Holder holds a special place in her heart, as it’s where her journey in the Savanna School District first began. After a wonderful first year reconnecting with students, staff, and families, she’s grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the Holder community and looks forward to another year filled with learning, growth, and meaningful connections.

Ms. Garcia began her educational career as an instructional assistant in a predominantly Spanish-speaking community, where she discovered her passion for supporting students and partnering with families. While working and attending school, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and Communication Disorders from California State University, Los Angeles. She later worked with the Department of Mental Health, serving at-risk youth, before pursuing a Master’s Degree and Credential in Special Education. She then taught as an Early Childhood Special Education teacher, supporting young students with disabilities and helping them build strong foundations for future success.

Born in Guatemala and raised in Southern California, Ms. Garcia came to the United States at the age of two. Her family's journey, work ethic, and commitment to education instilled in her the values of perseverance, gratitude, and service. These experiences continue to shape her leadership and allow her to connect authentically with students and families from diverse backgrounds. She understands the importance of creating strong partnerships between home and school and ensuring that every child feels valued, supported, and capable of achieving great things.

Ms. Garcia is deeply committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and nurturing environment where all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. She believes that every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and celebrated, and she is passionate about helping students discover their strengths and reach their full potential.

As she begins her second year as principal at Holder, Ms. Garcia is excited to see all that the Holder Hawks will accomplish. She looks forward to celebrating students' achievements, supporting their growth, and working alongside Holder’s exceptional staff and supportive families to create opportunities that inspire learning, leadership, and success. Together, they will continue building a school community where every student feels a true sense of belonging and pride in being a Holder Hawk.