Dear Tubman Families,

Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year! It is with great pride and excitement that I welcome both our returning families and those joining our school community for the first time. Harriet Tubman Elementary continues to grow not only in numbers but in excellence, and we are thrilled to begin another year of joyful, rigorous learning together.

Last year was one of powerful progress and celebration. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of our teachers, students, staff, and families, we saw remarkable academic growth. Our reading proficiency increased by an outstanding 20%, and math proficiency grew by 2%, based on preliminary IAR data. These gains are just the beginning of what’s possible here at Tubman.

Our Star 360 growth percentiles climbed to the 75th percentile in both reading and math—a leap of 15% and 13%, respectively, from the previous year. What’s even more inspiring is that students with IEP's grew at similar or even higher rates than their peers, and students of all backgrounds and ethnicities experienced comparable growth. These outcomes reflect our deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and ensuring that every child thrives.

Beyond academics, our dedication to the whole child was recognized at the district level with an “Excelling” rating in Fine and Performing Arts. Whether on stage or in the classroom, our students continue to shine with creativity and confidence.

As we begin this new year, we carry with us not only the momentum of last year’s accomplishments but also a renewed commitment to cultivating a safe, supportive, equitable and rigorous environment. Our theme this year is Excellence Grows Here, which reflects our focus on differentiation, small group instruction, and our continued support for all students.

I look forward to partnering with you this year! Thank you for being part of what makes Tubman so special.

With gratitude and excitement,

Principal Hammaker

Greetings Tubman Community,

It is with excitement and gratitude  that I write this introduction as the Assistant Principal of Tubman  Elementary School. I’m honored to serve in this capacity. I look forward  to building relationships, supporting, and collaborating with the  Tubman community.

For the past 17 years, I have served families and students at CPS. I worked as a Middle School teacher, IB Coordinator and Acting Assistant Principal. I am an alumna of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Governors State University and DePaul University.

My philosophy is that every student  should have access to culturally relevant resources that catapult their  academic success. I am committed to supporting the needs of all students  while being equitable and inclusive. I cannot wait to celebrate our  collective success during this school year as a community.

I look forward to meeting everyone. My door will always be open to you. Please feel
free to contact me at qrwiley-ruff@cps.edu.

Kind Regards,
Qiana Wiley