Influential Woman · Education
Ashley Tetter-Rowden
Elementary Principal, Hartsburg-Emden Community Unit School District 21
Emden, IL 62635
Her Story
About Ashley
Ashley Tetter-Rowden has dedicated her career to inspiring young learners and fostering excellence in elementary education. After earning her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Olivet Nazarene University, she began teaching kindergarten before accepting her first classroom position in second grade. She later spent five years teaching fifth grade, developing a passion for helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. A leap of faith led her to relocate two hours south, where she taught third grade before transitioning into school leadership.
Building on her classroom experience, Ashley became principal of both a primary school and a junior high before finding her true calling as an elementary principal. She is passionate about creating positive learning environments where students and educators can thrive. Throughout her career, she has been guided by the mentorship of Codi Conway, whose encouragement and leadership have had a lasting impact on her professional journey. Ashley considers being recognized as Student Teacher of the Year one of her earliest and most meaningful accomplishments, reinforcing her commitment to education.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Ashley enjoys expressing her creativity through music and the arts. She plays in a band and enjoys drawing, sketching, and other fine arts pursuits. She also appreciates the creativity and problem-solving involved in building LEGO creations. Whether leading a school community or pursuing her artistic interests, Ashley brings enthusiasm, imagination, and a lifelong passion for learning to everything she does.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ashley
01What do you attribute your success to?
My small group of people. My mom and dad have been there for me from the beginning, and then my husband came in when I started the second master's. Without that small group, I would probably lose my mind.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Remember to have fun with the kids. I still take that as a principal with lunch and popping into classrooms for read-alouds.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't give up. There's going to be a lot of people standing in your way telling you you can't do this, you're too young. Stick to it if you have your mind to it.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Getting people to want to be educators. In 10 years we've gone from too many teachers to a shortage. Kids are worth it, they need you.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty - we're all gonna make mistakes, just be honest. Being very organized, Type A. Creative - like people who are not afraid to try new things.
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