Administrators

 Principal: Mrs. Natalie Arnold

Mrs. Arnold has worked in education for more than 20 years and has been an administrator for the last 17 years. She began her career teaching elementary music at Edison Elementary in the St. Joseph School District. She then became the administrative intern/assistant principal at Edison and Coleman Elementary. Mrs. Arnold accepted the position of elementary principal in the South Harrison County R-II School District in Bethany, Missouri, in 2011; and she spent six years leading the elementary school there. She then returned to the St. Joseph School District where she has most recently served as the principal of Oak Grove Elementary for the past nine years.

Mrs. Arnold believes every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and challenged each day. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in the belief that strong relationships, high expectations, and a positive school culture create the foundation for meaningful learning. Mrs. Arnold is committed to partnering with families, empowering teachers and staff, and fostering an environment where curiosity, kindness, and resilience thrive. She believes that together, we can inspire students to become confident learners, compassionate leaders, and lifelong problem-solvers who are prepared for success both inside and outside the classroom.

Mrs. Arnold received her Bachelor of Science degree in Vocal Music Education, Master of Science Degree in Educational Leadership with an Elementary emphasis, and Educational Specialist degree in the Superintendency, all from Northwest Missouri State University. Her husband, David, is an administrator in the St. Joseph School District; and they have four adult children: Colin, Tyson, Addison and Gracen.
 

Assistant Principal: Mrs. Lynsey Peck     

 

Mrs. Lynsey Peck began serving as assistant principal at Southeast Elementary in the 2024–2025 school year. She is currently in her 22nd year in education. Mrs. Peck joined the Park Hill School District in 2021 as a fifth-grade teacher at Tiffany Ridge Elementary. Prior to becoming Southeast's assistant principal, she served as a second-grade teacher, assistant to the principal, and summer school principal at Union Chapel Elementary.

Mrs. Peck earned her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Missouri Western State University, her master's degree in Elementary Principal (K–8) from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and her Educational Specialist degree in Superintendency from Northwest Missouri State University.

Mrs. Peck is dedicated to helping every student thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. She believes strong relationships, high expectations, and a supportive learning environment empower students to reach their full potential. She values partnering with families and staff to ensure every child feels welcomed, challenged, and inspired to succeed.