School Leadership

Welcome to Edna Ferber Elementary School!

As Principal, Mrs. Heather Doyle Ostrum is dedicated to the continuation of cultivating a welcoming, supportive, and high-achieving school community. She views leadership as a collaborative partnership and is committed to ensuring that every student at Ferber has the resources, safety, and encouragement they need to succeed.

Mrs. Doyle Ostrum’s approach to leadership is deeply informed by her foundational years in the classroom. Before transitioning into administration, she spent over a decade working directly with students as a 3rd grade teacher, 5th grade teacher, 6th grade teacher, MS/HS ELA teacher, and K-12 reading and math interventionist. This extensive hands-on experience keeps her grounded in the daily realities of the classroom and ensures that student-centered learning remains at the center of her decision-making.

Prior to joining the Appleton Area School District in 2025, Mrs. Doyle Ostrum served in key leadership roles, including Curriculum & Instruction Senior Program Administrator for the West Bend School District and K-12 Curriculum and Literacy Director at the Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe School. She holds a Master of Arts in Education and lifetime Wisconsin licensures as a Principal, Director of Instruction, and PK-12 Reading Specialist.

While she brings a strong background in literacy frameworks and data-driven instruction, she believes her most important task is working alongside Ferber’s talented staff and supportive families to help students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the Ferber community. I enjoy partnering with our families and staff to maintain a vibrant, equitable learning environment where every student can learn, grow, and help others every day.”