Emma Batty, Principal

I am deeply honored to serve as the principal of Tanque Verde Elementary School, a place that holds a very special place in my heart. As a child, I spent countless hours on the playground and in classrooms while my father worked at Tanque Verde Elementary as both a teacher and principal. Returning to TVES first as an assistant principal and now as principal has been one of my greatest privileges, allowing me to give back to the community that shaped who I am today.

With nearly 20 years in education, I have had the joy of serving in various roles including elementary classroom teacher, Learning Supports Coordinator, and Director of Student Services. Throughout my career, I have always prioritized building meaningful relationships and embracing a restorative approach that honors each child's unique journey. I believe that when we invest in connections and create supportive environments, we empower every student to flourish.

Student learning remains at the heart of everything we do at Tanque Verde Elementary. I am passionate about leading a school community that values collaborative effort and teamwork, ensuring every child receives the exceptional education they deserve while thriving academically, socially, and emotionally.

Julie Laird, Assistant Principal

Welcome to Tanque Verde Elementary! With nearly four decades of experience in education, I am proud to serve as Assistant Principal, a role I’ve held for the past eight years and one that continues to inspire me every day.

My career began in the Tucson Unified School District, where I served as a teacher, curriculum support specialist, and elementary principal before retiring after 30 meaningful years. But it didn’t take long to realize that school is where my heart truly belongs. I am deeply passionate about building strong relationships and helping every child feel safe, supported, and successful at school.

From playing college softball at Central Arizona Junior College and New Mexico State to earning my bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. at the University of Arizona, my journey has always centered around teamwork, growth, and a love of learning. I look forward to partnering with our families and staff to make Tanque Verde Elementary a place where every student feels valued, supported, and successful.