Meet Our Principal and Associate Principal!

 

Meet Monica Garcia, our new Principal: 

I have been in education for 25 years, entering education as a teacher of middle school students.  I taught science and English in the South Kitsap School District.  I joined Lake Washington School District in 2009, first as an Associate Principal at Inglewood Junior High and then as a floating elementary associate Principal, supporting Rosa Parks, Dickinson, and Rockwell Elementary Schools.  I fell in love with the magic and wonder of elementary school!  In 2013, I joined Peter Kirk Elementary as the school’s principal.  I am proud of the work we did, nurturing inclusive practices and the strong community partnership. 

Each year, I commit to learning something new.  I’ve delved into black and white print photography, I became a certified yoga instructor, never quite mastered the guitar, and have embraced how hard it is for me to learn new languages.  This practice keeps me connected to learning experience for both students and adults. 

One of my core values is authenticity and I find meaning in creating spaces where students, families, and staff can show up as who they are.  I consider myself a ‘solution finder’ and helping people to find a way forward is a priority.  If you ever have the thought, “maybe I should reach out to the principal,” the answer is a resounding “yes!”  I may not be the one with all the answers, but I will come alongside, and we will find a way forward.

~ Monica

Associate Principal Brian Dyson 

Greetings! My name is Brian Dyson and I’m very excited to join the Horace Mann team as Associate Principal. I come to Redmond by way of Tacoma and Aberdeen, where I served as Assistant Principal and Dean of Students respectively. Before that, I taught band and orchestra for 11 years in Renton and Seattle and achieved National Board certification in 2020. Serving as a teacher leader during this time sparked my passion for school leadership, which ultimately led me to where I am today. Personally, as a proud Washingtonian, I grew up in Tacoma, attended college in Bellingham (with a stint in Georgia for my Masters), and worked throughout the state. Outside of school, you’ll likely find me jogging around town, enjoying the outdoors with my wife, or perusing the local record or book shop. We also love to travel, whether near or far, and frequently visit Denver to see my sister and her family.

As a leader, I believe in putting people first, exercising shared leadership, and seeking personal and professional growth. These values, among others, will guide my leadership as I lead for equitable learning environments for all students. I look forward to partnering with staff, students, and families in this work. Again, I’m so excited to join the Horace Mann community. Together, we can create opportunities for learners to grow and thrive. I look forward to a wonderful year for all our students.

Go Colts!

Brian Dyson