The Uintah School District is pleased to announce that Tawna Baumgardner has been named the new principal for Ashley Elementary School pending approval by the Uintah School Board.
Baumgardner is currently an instructional coach and literacy specialist for the district. She will succeed Carrie Weldon as Ashley’s principal. Weldon has accepted a position as an instructional coach with the district.
Uintah Schools Superintendent Dr. Rick Woodford introduced Baumgardner as Ashley’s next principal during a meeting with members of the school’s staff Tuesday morning. He touted her leadership skills as well as her extensive background in reading and language arts.
“Tawna has a clear vision for Ashley Elementary,” Woodford said. “Her vision and mine are in line with one another.
“Specifically, for me, I want kids at Ashley to be the best readers in the district,” the superintendent said. “With Tawna’s experience and leadership I have no doubt we can achieve that goal, which will serve our kids well in middle school, in high school, and throughout their lives beyond school.”
Baumgardner started her career teaching kindergarten in San Diego, California. She has a decade of K-8 classroom experience in California and Idaho. During her time in Idaho, she began working as an instructional coach. Baumgardner has been an instructional coach in the Uintah School District for six years. For the past four years she has also served as the district’s literacy specialist.
“The work we do in our schools is some of the most important work happening in our community,” Baumgardner said. “What the teachers and staff do at Ashley Elementary matters! I’m excited to be part of moving the school forward in a positive way.”
Baumgardner believes all kids should have the opportunity to learn at high levels from strong teachers who care about them.
“I want Ashley’s teachers, staff, students and parents to know I believe in them,” she said. “Together we can make a difference and help our kids reach their highest potential.”