Our district is proud to share this article, which was featured in the Weekly Update of the Michigan Elementary & Middle School Principals Association (MEMSPA)
Principal Spotlight: Diana Keefe of Ferndale Lower Elementary
Article Published: MEMSPA Weekly Update: March 5, 2025
At Ferndale Lower Elementary, Principal Diana Keefe is more than just a leader—she is the heart of the school. Her unwavering commitment to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment has made a profound impact on students, staff, and the entire school community.
“As a leader, I have so much admiration and respect for Principal Keefe. She is a true leader who fosters a positive and supportive learning environment for both students and staff. She possesses an impeccable ability to inspire creativity, encourage collaboration, and promote a culture of community within her building. She is a principal who you can talk to, and she really listens and wants to support her staff. She makes coming to work a joy every day.” – Stacey Hall
Principal Keefe is known for putting students first in every decision she makes. Her dedication to student success and well-being is a core part of her leadership.
“One thing that I have consistently observed working under Diana is that she is driven by what is best for kids! It’s what I admire about her most, and what makes working with her such a pleasure.” – Jeremy Frame
Beyond her dedication to student success, Mrs. Keefe is also deeply committed to fostering a culture of kindness, trust, and encouragement within her school community.
“Mrs. Keefe is a principal with a full heart who cares deeply about our school family. She leads by fostering relationships rooted in kindness and is deeply committed to building trust. Her support, encouragement, and vision inspire every student and teacher, creating a community where everyone feels empowered to grow and succeed together.” – Jodi Cusmano
Diana leads by example. She recognizes the strengths in her staff and ensures they feel seen, valued, and supported in their work.
“She is positive, encouraging, and supportive. She looks for the best in her teachers and staff. She gives positive feedback both privately and publicly—sometimes in a quick text or email, other times more publicly at a staff meeting. Diana also models leadership in how she talks to students. She is caring but firm when needed. Sometimes known as ‘Kindness Keefe,’ she can be seen with her heart-shaped glasses riding a bike down the hall. I feel lucky to work with a principal like Mrs. Keefe. I feel supported and appreciated for what I do.” – Janice Krum
Diana Keefe is not just an administrator; she is a mentor, a motivator, and a true advocate for her school community.
“She is the type of principal and person who leaves a lasting impact. She has a deep commitment to her staff, students, and community. Diana always tells people, ‘It starts with the heart,’ and her heart has an infinite amount of love to give. I am proud to call her my principal, teammate, and friend.” – Hayley Majeske
“When we think about who Mrs. Keefe is as a principal, the first word that comes to mind is heart. When someone comes to her—whether it’s a staff member, a student, or a parent/guardian—one of the first things she says is, ‘How can I help?’ Because that’s who she is.” – Sarah Nelson and Shania Franklin
Her kindness and compassion are felt daily at Ferndale Lower Elementary.
“Diana’s compassion and kindness radiate through our school daily. She truly goes above and beyond to understand her students and staff alike.” – Bethany Wolfe
The love she has for her job and the students is evident in everything she does.
“The principal at Lower, Mrs. Keefe, is amazing. She truly loves her job and the kids.” – Parent
Diana Keefe embodies what it means to be a dedicated, compassionate, and inspiring leader. Her positive impact on Ferndale Lower Elementary is immeasurable, and her influence will continue to shape the school community for years to come. Thank you, Principal Keefe, for all that you do!
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