April 14, 2026
Please see introduction from 2026-27 LJE principal, Tiffanie Heller.
I am honored to step into the role as Principal of Lone Jack Elementary and to join a district known for its close‑knit community, its commitment to student success, and its dedication to empowering all learners. After fourteen years as an educator, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve students, staff, and families in a school community that values connection, consistency, and doing what is best for kids.
My career has included meaningful experiences in both the Independence and Grain Valley School Districts, where I have taught, led, and supported students across a variety of roles. I have provided administrative relief across multiple buildings and served as a director for Grain Valley’s summer school program. These opportunities have strengthened my knowledge of instructional leadership, collaboration, and schoolwide systems.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Education from Illinois State University, a Master of Science in K‑12 School Administration from the University of Central Missouri, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Superintendency, also from the University of Central Missouri. Each step of my educational journey has reinforced my commitment to continuous growth and to building strong, student‑centered systems that support both teaching and learning.
Throughout my career, I have worked to lead with steadiness, approachability, and support. Building strong relationships is at the heart of my work, and I am committed to ensuring that students feel known, teachers feel supported, and families feel connected. My goal is to create an environment where every member of our school community feels valued and heard.
My husband, Dane, and I live in Grain Valley with our four children—Maeva (11), Vanna (10), Witt (8), and Vada (6). As both an educator and a parent, I understand the importance of a school environment that is safe, welcoming, and focused on helping every child thrive.
I am truly excited to join the Lone Jack Elementary community and look forward to partnering with staff and families to continue the school’s tradition of excellence. It is a privilege to serve this community, and I am eager to begin this work together
I am honored to step into the role as Principal of Lone Jack Elementary and to join a district known for its close‑knit community, its commitment to student success, and its dedication to empowering all learners. After fourteen years as an educator, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve students, staff, and families in a school community that values connection, consistency, and doing what is best for kids.
My career has included meaningful experiences in both the Independence and Grain Valley School Districts, where I have taught, led, and supported students across a variety of roles. I have provided administrative relief across multiple buildings and served as a director for Grain Valley’s summer school program. These opportunities have strengthened my knowledge of instructional leadership, collaboration, and schoolwide systems.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Education from Illinois State University, a Master of Science in K‑12 School Administration from the University of Central Missouri, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Superintendency, also from the University of Central Missouri. Each step of my educational journey has reinforced my commitment to continuous growth and to building strong, student‑centered systems that support both teaching and learning.
Throughout my career, I have worked to lead with steadiness, approachability, and support. Building strong relationships is at the heart of my work, and I am committed to ensuring that students feel known, teachers feel supported, and families feel connected. My goal is to create an environment where every member of our school community feels valued and heard.
My husband, Dane, and I live in Grain Valley with our four children—Maeva (11), Vanna (10), Witt (8), and Vada (6). As both an educator and a parent, I understand the importance of a school environment that is safe, welcoming, and focused on helping every child thrive.
I am truly excited to join the Lone Jack Elementary community and look forward to partnering with staff and families to continue the school’s tradition of excellence. It is a privilege to serve this community, and I am eager to begin this work together