Silver Lake USD 372 is proud to announce Dr. Heather Calvert as the new Principal of Silver Lake Elementary.
Dr. Calvert brings nearly 20 years of experience in education, serving as a principal, instructional literacy coach, building leader intern, and classroom teacher. Most recently, she has served as Principal at Grant Elementary School for USD 500. She previously led Indian Hills Elementary and has extensive experience in instructional leadership, professional development, school improvement, and student-centered culture.
She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Kansas State University, along with a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Throughout her career, she has remained committed to high expectations, strong relationships, and ensuring systems are in place for every student to succeed.
For Dr. Calvert, education has always been a calling. Even at five years old, she knew she wanted to be a teacher. In high school, she began tutoring elementary students after school and quickly discovered her passion for helping young learners grow and succeed.
What drew her to Silver Lake was the strength of the community. She describes it as a special place where support for schools, small businesses, and one another is evident. She is especially excited to work alongside educators who are deeply invested in the success of every student and family and looks forward to helping Silver Lake continue to strive to be the top-performing district in Kansas.
Dr. Calvert believes a strong elementary culture is built on a clear vision and a shared commitment to doing what is best for students. In her leadership, she prioritizes ensuring every child feels safe, valued, and seen. She is known for being visible in classrooms, hallways, lunchrooms, and during arrival and dismissal — believing that authentic relationships are the foundation of a thriving school community.
Her first priority in year one is relationship-building. She is committed to making sure every stakeholder — students, families, and staff — feels heard and valued while strengthening the partnership between school and home.
Outside of school, Dr. Calvert and her husband, John, have been married for 17 years. He currently serves as the Director of the Safe and Secure Schools Unit at the Kansas State Department of Education. They have two children — Abby, a freshman, and John William, a sixth grader — along with two beloved dogs: a black lab and a cattle dog.
She brings a touch of elementary spirit with her as well. As a child, her favorite book was Frindle, drawn to the idea that kids can make an impact. Social studies was her favorite subject, especially when learning came to life through immersive hallway transformations and hands-on projects. And like many students, she remembers Crispitos as the highlight of school lunch.
If she could choose a superpower as principal, it would be ensuring technology never fails — or simply always being the calm, steady presence students, staff, and families need.
Silver Lake Elementary is entering an exciting new chapter under Dr. Calvert’s leadership. With a deep commitment to students, strong instructional background, and passion for community, she is ready to lead with purpose and pride.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Heather Calvert to Eagle Nation.