Principal

What is your education background?

I am an Arizona Wildcat, with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Education along with a Master's in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University.

• P.E. Teacher for 4 years
• AP at Middle School for 4 years
• AP GWP for 3 years
• Principal at GWP for 5 years

What are some of your key priorities as principal?

• Creating a safe and inclusive environment: Establishing a positive and safe school climate where all students feel valued and respected.
• Encouraging parents and community involvement: Engaging parents, families, and community members to enhance the overall school experience.
• Promoting positive behavior and discipline: Setting clear expectations for behavior and implementing fair and consistent discipline policies.
• Building a collaborative faculty: Encouraging teamwork and a culture of shared learning among the staff.
• Providing professional development opportunities: Facilitating ongoing learning for teachers, ensuring they have the resources and training needed to excel in their roles.
• Guiding student success and academic achievement: Believing that every child deserves the opportunity to be educated in a way that prepares them for college. When schools exhibit a culture of universal achievement by believing in students, they collaborate around that belief. During collaboration, they align their standards as a team. As teams align standards, they assess the standards and manage the data. Then, and only then, can they pursue meaningful interventions for all our students.

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

Here at Gateway, we are a No Excuses University (NEU). We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to be educated in a way that prepares them for college if they choose to attend. An important part of being a NEU school is that everyone makes a pledge to give their best effort to help send Gateway students to college.

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

Education is a partnership between the school, parents and the community. As partners, we can create an atmosphere that fosters a love for learning and inspires our students to reach their full potential. We believe in the importance of a strong home-school connection, and encourage open communication between parents, teachers, and administration. Together, we can create a successful educational experience for our young scholars.

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

The override has enhanced art, music, PE, and media center opportunities here at GWP. These subjects provide students with opportunities to express themselves in unique and creative ways. They encourage imagination, originality, and the exploration of different forms of self-expression. Physical education promotes teamwork, sportsmanship, and cooperation. It helps students develop social skills, learn how to work together, and build positive relationships.

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

Emphasizing character in an elementary school is essential for nurturing well-rounded, responsible, and empathetic individuals. Here are some strategies we incorporate into the overall educational experience at GWP:

• Modeling and Demonstration:
  • Lead by Example: Teachers and staff model the behavior and values they want to instill in students. They demonstrate respect, kindness, and fairness in all interactions.
• Classroom Discussions and Reflections:
  • Guided Discussions: We facilitate conversations about real-life situations and daily dilemmas. We encourage students to share their perspectives and consider different points of view.
  • Journaling and Reflections: We provide opportunities for students to reflect on their actions and decisions.
• Community Involvement:
  • Community Projects: Students can participate in projects that contribute positively to the community. This could include volunteering or fundraising.
• Recognizing and Celebrating Character:
  • Awards and Recognition: Each month we acknowledge students who consistently exhibit positive character traits through our Kona Ice partnership.
• Consistent Language and Expectations:
  • Establish Core Values: GWP has clearly defined the core values and expectations for behavior within the school community. SNAP: Safe Actions, Non-Stop Learning, Accepting Responsibility and Practicing Respect.

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

The small-town feel. Everyone knows you by name and truly cares about you.

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

I wish more people knew how much we love and care for our GWP students. We take the time to get to know each student, their interests, strengths, and challenges. We have a genuine care and concern for their well-being.

How has your school embraced Higley Unified Strategic Plan specifically the #higleyhelps challenge?

On November 17th, we have our "Grand Gator Day" at GWP. All students get to participate in a fun filled day to celebrate the $15,000 they raised for new shade structures. The student-athletes from Williams Field High School will be in attendance to greet students entering campus to show their support for their fundraising efforts.

We are also working on building relationships with senior communities through visits and interactions with assisted living and memory care.