Meet the Principal

Kelly Mickel, Principal  

I grew up in New York and have now proudly been in the Ypsilanti community for twenty years. I began my teaching career in Willow Run Community Schools as a Physical Education teacher and over the course of my tenure have taught at all levels, K-12. In 2009, I received my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University. Over the course of my career in education, I have served as a coach, teacher, athletic director and now a principal for the past seven years.  I have proudly served as the principal of Erickson Elementary since 2014. My expertise in community building, project based learning, technology integration, innovation, and leadership has enhanced the instructional initiatives and school culture at Erickson. I have high expectations and am dedicated to ensuring the highest quality education for all children. I believe positive relationships are the foundation for high quality teaching and learning and fostering a positive school culture and climate with strong school and family ties.

I have been married for 13 years to my loving husband Mike, who owns a painting company. We have a beautiful daughter Emma who is nine years old and our adorable son Michael was born December 2019. Although I love my work, I also love spending time with my family and friends. I love being outside and working in our garden,watching and playing sports, reading and playing with my children and learning new things.