Principal's Message

Dear Hillcrest Scholars, Families, Staff, and Community,

Every scholar who walks through the doors of Hillcrest Elementary should leave each day believing three things: I belong. I can lead. I can grow.

It is with tremendous excitement, gratitude, and humility that I introduce myself as your new principal. My name is Pamela Dao, and I am honored to join the Hillcrest Huskies. For more than 20 years, I have had the privilege of serving students, families, and educators as a teacher, special education teacher, assistant principal, and school leader. My work has been rooted in rigorous instruction, inclusive practices, PBIS, MTSS, and the belief that every child deserves to be known, challenged, supported, and celebrated. 

I am especially excited to join a school community that is already doing extraordinary work. Hillcrest’s commitment to Leader in Me, the 7 habits, our BARK spirit, student leadership, and the development of the whole child reflects the kind of school culture I deeply value. I believe leadership is not reserved for a few students; it belongs to every scholar, every staff member, and every family.

As I begin this journey, my commitment is to honor the strong foundation at Hillcrest while growing alongside you. I want to listen carefully, learn your stories, understand your traditions, celebrate your strengths, and partner with you around our shared hopes for every scholar. To our families, I want you to know that your voice matters. You are essential partners in your child’s education, and I look forward to building strong relationships with you. To our scholars, I cannot wait to learn your names, hear your ideas, celebrate your accomplishments, and watch you discover the leaders you are becoming. And last but not least, to our staff, I am excited to serve and support every single person on campus so we can foster the best place for our scholars!

This year, our theme of the year is “Wild About Learning” with a Safari touch. Together, we will continue building a school where students feel safe to take risks, inspired to learn, empowered to lead, and confident in their ability to make a difference. We will make 2026-2027 year the greatest yet! 

With Husky Pride,

Mrs. Pamela Dao

Principal, Hillcrest Elementary School

Click to learn more about Mrs. Dao!