Jennifer Heard- Ruth E. Laird Campus Principal 

Mrs. Heard brings 30 years of experience in education, having worked with students from PK through 12th grade. The majority of her experience and the heart of her work has been in the elementary setting, where she is deeply committed to building strong foundations for young learners. She also has five years of experience as a campus administrator at a high-performing school, where she supported both student achievement and teacher growth.

Mrs. Heard believes that students thrive when they are supported by adults who are fully invested in their success, adults who build strong relationships, provide encouragement, and maintain high standards that challenge students to reach their full potential. She is passionate about creating an environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to excel.

She is especially excited about opening this new campus and the opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up. This includes establishing strong traditions, creating a positive and inclusive school culture, and designing experiences that students will carry with them for years to come. Mrs. Heard is committed to fostering hands-on learning and implementing innovative approaches that actively engage both students and their families. She believes that families are essential partners in education, and that strong collaboration between school and home is key to helping students succeed.

Much like Mrs. Laird expressed, Mrs. Heard looks forward to helping every student achieve their biggest dreams.

Amy Link - Ruth E. Laird Campus Assistant Principal 

Mrs. Link is a proud Dickinson native and dedicated educator serving as Assistant Principal at Ruth E. Laird Elementary. A graduate of Dickinson High School, she is a true Dickinson Gator through and through. Mrs. Link has spent her entire 23 year career in Dickinson Independent School District, where she has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and campus leader.

Mrs. Link is passionate about education and believes in supporting the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally. She is committed to creating a positive, engaging learning environment while building strong relationships with students, staff, and families. As part of a brand new campus, she is especially excited to help build a connected school family grounded in trust, collaboration, and high expectations for all.

Mrs. Link is married to a fellow educator and is the proud mom of two daughters and a bonus son. Having grown up, attended school, raised her family, and built her career in Dickinson, this community means everything to her, and she is honored to serve the students and families of Ruth E. Laird Elementary.