In April, Dr. Gurley announced two new school leaders for Burnley-Moran Elementary (which will become Sunrise Elementary this summer).  Mr. Brad Hanrich will be principal, and Ms. Hannah Collins will be assistant principal. Excerpts from Dr. Gurley's announcements to the school community are below.

Mr. Brad Handrich, Principal

With great pleasure, I am writing to announce your new principal, Mr. Brad Handrich. Mr. Handrich (pronounced Hand-rick) comes to our school from Albemarle County Public Schools, where he has served as principal of Baker-Butler since 2023.  Previously, he served as assistant principal at Greer and Mountain View Elementaries, so he comes to this position with extensive experience. He has taught in Colorado and Virginia, as well as in the countries of Colombia, Mexico, and Venezuela. He has degrees from the University of Colorado at Denver and the University of Northern Colorado.

In his previous work as a school leader, he has demonstrated a commitment to family engagement, student-led learning, and positive school culture. He has taught both English language learners as well as Spanish language immersion classes. From implementing a data-driven approach that looks at the whole child to reducing chronic absenteeism, his skills and background align with our needs.

Ms. Hannah Collins, Assistant Principal
I’m equally happy to let you know that we have also hired Ms. Hannah Collins as assistant principal to complete this “dream team” for your school. Ms. Collins has extensive experience as assistant principal, a role she holds currently at Fluvanna County Middle School and previously at two elementary schools in Fairfax County. She has two degrees from JMU and her administration and supervision endorsement from UVA. Like Mr. Handrich, she is committed to positive school culture and effective student supports. Your school will be in great hands!

Thanks to Dr. Korab!
Of course, we can’t say hello to Mr. Handrich and Ms. Collins without saying thanks again to Dr. Korab as she moves into the role of planning principal for our new city-wide early childhood education center. As I have said before, her work to build a strong school community will be the gift that keeps on giving.

Come Meet Mr. Handrich and Ms. Collins!
Your family is invited to enjoy popsicles on the playground on Thursday, May 15, from 5-6:30pm. Mr. Handrich, Ms. Collins, and I will be there to say hello!