Meet Shelly Moody, Principal of Atwood Primary School
Welcome back! We are all so excited to open our doors and welcome our community back into our school houses for another spectacular year of learning and growth here at RSU 18! Before we kick off the school year, we wanted to introduce our building administrators! First up is Shelly Moody, Principal of Atwood Primary School in Oakland!
Personal Motivation
When asked what Principal Moody enjoys most about working in education, she shared that there are countless things to love about public schools, especially in RSU 18. For her, the very best part of the job is building meaningful relationships with students and families. Having spent her entire career teaching in the district—primarily in Oakland—Moody now has the unique privilege of working with the children of former students. She describes it as both a gift and an honor to witness the growth and success of students year after year. She is especially passionate about supporting the youngest learners, helping each child begin their educational journey with joy and confidence.
Leadership Style and Vision
This year, Moody’s top priority at Atwood Primary is ensuring that all students are seen, supported, and celebrated. She emphasizes the importance of strong connections between staff and children, paired with high expectations and individualized teaching to meet the needs of every learner. Moody hopes to create opportunities for all children to be curious, creative, and persistent in reaching their goals—while also developing a lifelong love of learning.
The Role of Families and Community
Believing firmly that “it takes a village to raise a child,” Moody is grateful for the strong support of the Oakland community. She encourages families to partner with teachers by reading at home, engaging in school events, and collaborating to support each child’s growth. Mrs. Moody and Mrs. Naegley are excited to continue beloved Atwood traditions—such as the Halloween parade with Costumes for a Cause and the annual June Carnival—while also introducing new family and community events this year. A weekly affirmation, such as “I can do hard things,” or “I am kind,” will also be introduced for students to share both at school and at home, reinforcing a growth mindset and positive outlook.
Favorite Children’s Book
As an avid lover of children’s literature, Shelly Moody finds it impossible to choose just one favorite. Reading aloud to students has always been a highlight of her role as both teacher and principal. A recent favorite, however, is I Am We: A Book of Community by Susan Verde. Moody admires its powerful message that every person is a valued and important member of the community. The book concludes with a line that resonates deeply with her own vision: “… if we put our heads and hearts together, and if we keep on caring for ourselves AND each other… everything is possible.”
Message for the School Year
Moody holds close the words of Ralph Atwood, who once said, “Insist your school is a happy place.” At Atwood Primary, her mission is to ensure that every child feels happy, welcomed, and supported each day. She fondly recalls her own children’s memories of Atwood—earning fish for hard work, dancing with Mrs. Blaisdell, and enjoying the famous Atwood Carnival—and she is committed to helping today’s students create joyful memories of their own. With teachers, families, students, and the wider Oakland community working together, Moody believes that WE make Atwood AWESOME!
Below are some photos of Mrs. Moody’s family when they were students at Atwood Primary School! #WeAreRSU18 #AtwoodAwesome
