Principal's Message

Welcome to Oak Hill Elementary! 

My name is April Bickford, and I am truly honored to serve as your principal for the 2026–2027 school year. I am excited to join the Clear Creek Amana community and look forward to partnering with our students, families, and staff to make this an incredible year of learning, growth, and connection.

I believe every child deserves to feel known, valued, and inspired each day they walk through our doors. Building positive relationships with students and families is at the heart of my work, because when children feel safe, supported, and connected, they are empowered to take risks, grow as learners, and reach their full potential.

Oak Hill is a special place where our dedicated educators work collaboratively to ensure every student succeeds. Through Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), our teachers continuously analyze student learning, celebrate growth, and provide timely support or enrichment based on each child's individual needs. Our students are also supported by an exceptional team of instructional coaches, interventionists, counselors, special education staff, and specialists who are committed to helping every child thrive.

As a 2nd and 3rd grade building, we know these years are an important bridge in a child's educational journey. At Oak Hill, we are committed to:

• Providing engaging, high-quality instruction aligned to the Iowa Academic Standards.
• Creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive school where every child feels a true sense of belonging.
• Fostering kindness, responsibility, perseverance, and respect through meaningful social-emotional learning.
• Meeting the unique needs of every learner through differentiated instruction and intentional support.
• Building strong partnerships with families because we know student success is greatest when we work together.

I believe that great schools are built through trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to doing what is best for children. My door is always open, and I encourage you to reach out, ask questions, share ideas, or simply introduce yourself. I look forward to getting to know each of our Oak Hill families and celebrating the many accomplishments our students will achieve throughout the year.

Thank you for welcoming me into the Oak Hill community. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as your principal and cannot wait to begin this exciting journey together.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at aprilbickford@ccaschools.org.

Here's to a wonderful school year at Oak Hill! Go Clippers!