With less than two weeks until Seattle Public Schools starts classes for the new school year, there’s word of a principal change at one local school. Received tonight from Laura Olson, president of the Highland Park Elementary PTA:

Highland Park Elementary School is thrilled to announce that effective August 24th we have a new principal, Adam Dysart! Mr. Dysart was the Assistant Principal at Highland Park last year, where he built a strong relationship with the HPE community, showing that he is truly committed to the success of each and every student. We are so pleased that Mr. Dysart was selected to lead our school and we are looking forward to a new and exciting school year. A big welcome to our new principal!

We would also like to offer a heartfelt thank you and good-bye to our former principal, Chris Cronas. He arrived at HPE in 2014 when our school faced a number of challenges. He was the central figure in a community meeting where those challenges were outlined, and in his 4 years with us he has worked with staff and community members to transform our school. Thank you for everything, Mr. Cronas, and good luck in your future endeavors!

She shared the two letters related to the announcement – first, from now-former principal Chris Cronas:

Dear Highland Park Families,

I had mentioned to students on the last day of school that there was a strong possibility I would not return. After speaking with my family and friends over the summer, I have decided to move on from Highland Park and leave the principalship altogether. I am resigning my position with Seattle Public Schools. I have been a school leader in Seattle for 11 years and I have learned so much from my experience.

When I arrived to Highland Park four years ago, the school had a myriad of challenges that took time to address. I can say with confidence that our community is in far better shape than it was when I arrived. And now, our students and staff need your help to take that final step toward academic success for every student. I know Highland Park is in great hands, supported by amazing staff and families. My very best to you all as you continue your work to make Highland Park the very best school for every child who walks through our doors.

And here’s how the change was announced by Dr. Mike Starosky, the district’s assistant superintendent/chief of schools:

Dear Highland Park Elementary community,

I am pleased to announce that Mr. Adam Dysart has been selected to be the new principal of Highland Park.

Mr. Dysart was the assistant principal, and was selected because of his relationships with and commitment to the Highland Park community and creating equitable outcomes from all students. He is a strong instructional leader who appreciates families and community members as a valuable resource.

Prior to serving at Highland Park, Mr. Dysart spent time as the Assistant Director of Student Advancement in Highline School District, a program manager for student supports in the Seattle Public Schools district office, and has elementary curriculum and classroom experience. Principal Dysart holds a deep commitment to meeting the needs of the whole child through a multi-tiered system of supports and is deeply committed to Highland Park.

Mr. Dysart earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Washington, his Master in Teaching from Seattle University, and his Principal and Program Administrator Certification from the University of Washington’s Danforth Educational Leadership Program.

Thank you to Principal Chris Cronas for his leadership as principal. Principal Dysart is committed to building upon the strong work that has been done by the staff and families of this school. Mr. Dysart’s first day as principal is today, and is looking forward to seeing students and families at the start of school.

Please join me in congratulating Principal Adam Dysart.

(Any other new principals for the new year? Please let us know so we can spotlight them too. Thank you!)