Harvard Junior High School welcomes the addition of Dr. Patricia Caine as its newest assistant principal.
Caine's path to education began in psychology and counseling, work that grew over time into school counseling, student services, and eventually school leadership. That progression, she says, brought together her love of working directly with students and families with a chance to help build systems where students and staff alike can thrive.
“What has excited me most is the people,” Caine said. “From my earliest conversations with the district through my first days at Harvard Junior High, I have been struck by the genuine commitment people have to students, to one another, and to this community.”
Caine is drawn to the middle-school years in particular, seeing this stage as an important window when students are discovering who they are and what they're capable of. Her approach centers on relationships and belonging paired with high expectations, and a genuine curiosity about what a student needs rather than a quick judgment about their behavior.
“I want students, families, and colleagues to know that I can learn from them just as I hope they can learn from me,” she added. “That requires listening, curiosity, humility, and a willingness to have courageous conversations when necessary.”
Outside of school, Caine is a lifelong learner who enjoys exploring Chicago and its surrounding communities, museums, farmers markets, travel, hiking, and kayaking, and spending time with family and friends. She also maintains a telehealth therapy practice supporting women and girls.
Dr. Caine holds a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, along with an Illinois Principal Endorsement and School Counselor Endorsement.
Summing up her goals in the role, Caine said she hopes to help create conditions where "every student feels known, supported, challenged, and empowered to succeed."