Principal

What is your education background?

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Arizona and later received my Master's in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. Throughout my career in education, I have had the privilege of serving in a variety of leadership roles, including

• Physical Education Teacher – 4 years
• Assistant Principal at a middle school – 4 years
• Assistant Principal at Gateway Pointe Elementary – 3 years
• Principal at Gateway Pointe Elementary – 7 years

These experiences have provided me with a strong foundation in instruction, leadership, and building a positive school culture where both students and staff can thrive.

What are some of your key priorities as principal?

My priorities as principal are centered on creating an environment where every student thrives academically, socially, and emotionally.

• Foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive school culture where every student feels valued, respected, and connected.
• Strengthen partnerships with families and the community to enrich the educational experience and support student success.
• Promote positive behavior and accountability through clear expectations and consistent, fair practices.
• Build a collaborative, high-performing staff culture that encourages teamwork, innovation, and shared responsibility for student achievement.
• Invest in professional growth by providing teachers with meaningful learning opportunities, resources, and ongoing support.
• Ensure high levels of academic achievement for every student by maintaining high expectations, aligning instruction to standards, using data to drive decisions, and providing timely, targeted interventions. I believe every student can achieve at high levels when educators work collaboratively to meet students' individual needs and prepare them for success in college, career, and life.

Is there a program or initiative at your school you are particularly proud of?

One initiative I am especially proud of is that Gateway Pointe is a No Excuses University (NEU) school. We believe every student deserves an education that prepares them for college and future success, should they choose that path.

Being a No Excuses University school means helping students see that college and future success are within their reach. Beginning in elementary school, we build a culture of high expectations, perseverance, and the belief that every student can achieve great things.

What is your philosophy when it comes to working with parents and students?

I believe education is a partnership among the school, families, and the community. When we work together, we create an environment that fosters a love of learning and inspires students to reach their full potential.

Strong relationships and open communication are essential. We encourage parents, teachers, and school leaders to work collaboratively to support every child. Together, we can provide a positive educational experience that helps all students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

How has the previous bond/override investments helped your school?

Override funding has enhanced opportunities for our students in art, music, physical education, and our media center.

These programs play an essential role in developing the whole child. Fine arts encourage creativity, imagination, and self-expression, while physical education promotes teamwork, perseverance, sportsmanship, and healthy lifestyles. These experiences complement classroom learning and help students develop important life skills that extend well beyond academics.

How do you emphasize character as part of the overall education being offered?

Developing strong character is just as important as developing academic skills. At Gateway Pointe, we intentionally teach and reinforce positive character throughout the school day. Some of the ways we do this include:

Modeling Positive Character

• Our teachers and staff lead by example by demonstrating kindness, respect, responsibility, and integrity in their daily interactions.

Meaningful Classroom Conversations

• Teachers facilitate discussions about real-life situations, encouraging students to consider different perspectives, solve problems respectfully, and reflect on their choices.

Community Involvement

• Students participate in service projects and fundraising opportunities that teach empathy, citizenship, and the importance of giving back.

Recognizing Positive Character

• Each month, we celebrate students who consistently demonstrate strong character through our Kona Ice partnership and other school recognition programs.

Consistent Expectations

• We reinforce our school-wide behavior expectations through our SNAP framework:
  • Safe Actions
  • Non-Stop Learning
  • Accepting Responsibility
  • Practicing Respect

By consistently teaching and recognizing these values, we help students develop into responsible, compassionate individuals both inside and outside the classroom.

What is one thing that stands out to you about the Higley Unified School District?

What stands out most to me about Higley Unified is its welcoming, small-town feel. Despite being a growing district, it has maintained a close-knit culture where relationships matter. People genuinely know, support, and care for one another, and there is a shared commitment to ensuring every student, family, and staff member feels valued.

What is one thing you wish more members of the community knew about your school?

I wish more people knew that Gateway Pointe is so much more than a school. We're a community!

Every day, our staff goes above and beyond to ensure students feel safe, supported, challenged, and inspired. Through innovative learning opportunities, caring educators, strong family partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, we help every child reach their full potential.

Our focus extends beyond academics. We are dedicated to developing the whole child by nurturing confidence, character, leadership, and a lifelong love of learning so our students are prepared not only for success in school, but for success in life.