National Principals Month: Q&A with Casey Siddons, Rock Terrace School
Posted On October 15, 2026
How long have you been with MCPS? Since 2008, so 18 years.
How long have you been at Rock Terrace School? I started as acting principal, September 2025. I am now in my second year.
What keeps you inspired and motivated in your work as a principal? The people: our students require more than I have ever experienced in education, but they are amazing humans. The staff: I say it all the time to anyone who will listen … I have never worked with so many adults, from teachers to building services to our ITSS, who know so much about so many students—student names, their likes and dislikes, routines, how they eat their food, their backgrounds, and families. Our motto is "Support for all from all" and I feel like that 100% encapsulates Rock Terrace School.
What's one thing your students or staff have taught you? First: everyone deserves a well-rounded public education. Second: even when a student exhibits a behavior, it doesn’t define them and it’s not necessarily because they are upset with you. [It’s due to] their inability to appropriately communicate how they are feeling and/or their frustration.
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What's one thing you hope every student feels when they walk through your school's doors? I hope that every single student feels welcomed, loved and supported.
What’s an interesting/fun fact that not everyone knows about you? I'm a Nationally Board Certified teacher (recently renewed!). And I'm a co-host of a relatively dormant education podcast called "Ed's Not Dead."😅
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What impact do you think principals have on the greater community? As a student and teacher of history, I have to come at this from that lens: historically, schools have always served as the nucleus of the community, and principals dictate whether that connection thrives. A principal’s impact comes down to tone and intentionality, setting a welcoming climate, ensuring responsive communication, and proactively opening our doors, especially to marginalized families who have historically felt excluded. When a principal models warm greetings, quick follow-through, and genuine accountability, they transform a school from a simple building into a trusted community anchor.
