Dr. Dana Stiner Named Principal of the Year

Personable – Trusted – Genuine

These are just a few of the qualities describing Pine Tree Elementary Principal Dana Stiner. 

In her sixth year as principal, she continues to increase positive outcomes for students.

“One thing I like about Dr. Stiner is she makes us happy, smart, kind, respectful, responsible, and she makes us feel safe,” said Treasure, Pine Tree student.

Before her arrival, the school had four different principals in four years. Turnover was high, student behavior was a challenge, and bullying was on the rise. Dr. Stiner worked closely with staff to create a plan that included a positive reward system, social skills training, and developing a culture where everyone felt heard. Her team’s work has resulted in an environment where students thrive socially and academically. 

“I love that she believes in all her students, no exceptions!” Said Tracee Romine, Pine Tree interventionist.

Dr. Stiner’s dedication to knowing each student and staff member is part of  the school’s positive culture. She also knows how to mix learning with fun and dreamed up the idea of a vending machine for books. Her office manager was able to acquire an old vending machine and convert it to hold books. Now the vending machine has become part of the school’s reward system. 

“One thing I like about Dr. Stiner is….loud, funny, read minds, nice, kind principal,” said Miracle, Pine Tree student.

When asked about Dr. Stiner, there is no shortage of praise from her team. Kent School District Executive Director Christine Avery writes, “Dana is the most deserving principal for this award because she improves the lives of children every day. She changes the trajectory of a student’s life by growing distinguished teachers and creating a school environment focused on learning, a sense of belonging, hope, and joy. She is relentless on her focus to improve curriculum, instruction, and assessment and thereby achieves closing achievement, opportunity, and equity gaps for her students.”

Dr. Stiner will also be recognized at the national level by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) as a National Distinguished Principal.

Source: Association of Washington School Principals (Elementary Principal of the Year press release)