Mrs. Emily Branch

It is my honor, as the Principal, to welcome everyone to Petal Upper Elementary School, where each and every day we strive for Excellence, Effort, Enthuiasm, and high Expectations.  It has been my privilege to serve PUE students, teachers, and families since July of 2014. Previously, I taught Kindergarten and First Grade at Petal Primary School for ten years.  I began my career in 1999 at Magee Elementary School in Magee, MS, where I taught Kindergarten through Fifth Grade.

Being an educator brings such joy to my life.  I truly love children, and it is my goal to make a difference in the lives of individual students.  I am here to support students and families by providing an open door and a listening ear.  As the great philosopher, Socrates, wrote, "Education is the kindling of a flame,  not the filling of a vessel."  This statement lies at the root of my work with children and teachers.  My sincere hope is for all students to leave PUES with a desire and love for learning.