National Principals Month 2024

Throughout October, the Puyallup School District celebrates National Principals Month, dedicated to our school leaders and administrators for their tireless efforts in shaping our students' future and highlighting their crucial role in creating an environment of learning, growth, and success for our youth.

How Principals Develop and Support Student Success

Principals play a crucial role in establishing the school's academic atmosphere and are accountable for cultivating a supportive learning culture and fostering student achievement. Additionally, they collaborate closely with teachers to design curricula that adhere to state standards and guarantee that all students receive a high-quality education.

Also, they are deeply dedicated to continuously improving educational outcomes by implementing innovative teaching methods and providing resources and personalized support to students who may be encountering difficulties. Principals work tirelessly to create and maintain a nurturing and safe learning environment where students feel supported and encouraged to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally committed to fostering a positive school culture and addressing the diverse needs of students is instrumental in shaping a holistic educational experience.
 

How Can I Show Appreciation for a Puyallup School District Principal or Assistant Principal?

We invite staff, students, families, community members, and alumni to share their appreciation for our school leaders by submitting a form by giving a shoutout to a PSD Principal or Assistant Principal.

Check back here throughout October to read inspiring stories about how our school leaders have positively impacted our community!

---

From PSD Students

Dr. Mark Knight - Edgemont Junior High Principal

Dr. Knight is always going out of his way to make everyday at Edgemont fun and safe. I really appreciate his energy while keeping everyone in line.

- Kellen

---

From Parents and Guardians

Monica Brinker - Fruitland Elementary Assistant Principal

Ms. Brinker is spectacular! She is so optimistic and welcoming. She is always on her feet covering classes, recess duty or whatever else is needed. She has this ‘nothing is beneath me’ attitude that every student is blessed to experience and hopefully emulate.

- Kayla

David Couch - Meeker Elementary Principal

Mr. Couch is an incredible person. His leadership has lead to such a positive environment at Meeker! I appreciate him!

- Jennifer

Kevin Hampton - Dessie Evans Elementary Principal

It is not possible to explain how pivotal Mr. Hampton has been in our lives! Let's just say the picture I submitted is my 8th grade Daughter with major social anxiety searching him out at her brother's school event. Mr. Hampton is simply the BEST!

- Stephanie

Ron Hartley - Kalles Junior High Principal

Mr. Hartley is so wonderful! He has an incredibly kind and magnetic personality, and he works to really know every single student in his school. He is present every morning to greet students, every afternoon to see them off, and attends just about every concert, performance, or school event to show his support. Just one year in, he is making a number of small but very meaningful changes to build community, ensure student safety and belonging, support teachers, and to honor each student's learning and socio-emotional needs. Kalles is a wonderful school and becoming an even greater place to be under Mr. Hartley's leadership!

- Katie

Kari Helling - Woodland Elementary Principal

Loves her students. Amazing

- Marissa

Susan Walton - Maplewood Elementary Principal

Let me count the ways she exudes the kind of educator and human magic—all children and families deserve to have a school experience led with this kind of heart and passion. She deeply cares about her staff, each and every student, puts all her energy into making Maplewood a diverse community where every family feels valued, and leads by example. Susan is a lifelong learner always striving to provide teachers (and herself) impactful professional development experiences to give students and parents the resources and support needed to succeed and to create a school environment full of genuine joy, belonging, trust, and connection.

- Katie

---

From PSD Staff

Eric Molver - Mt. View Elementary Principal

Mr. Molver is very nice! I’m thankful for him!

- Adalyn

---

From PSD Alumni

Michael Sanchez - Walker High Principal

He was always so caring and always checked up his students. It always amazed me cause he showed he truly cared about our school.

- Abigail

---

From Colleagues of PSD Principals and Assistant Principals

Anthony Corrado -  Zeiger Elementary Principal

Amazing leadership and compassion for students and staff.

- Linda

Dave Sunich - Puyallup High Principal

Mr. Sunich has led PHS through the COVID shutdown, the tragic passing of staff members, and all the new expectations that have been placed on a high school from the district and state. He remains positive through all of it! Kudos to him on one of the toughest jobs I can think of!

- Eric