A message from the Superintendent

April 23, 2013

Dear Seattle Public Schools community:

I am pleased to announce that Cashel Toner has been appointed as the new Director of Early Learning. This is a key role that we have been eager to fill with the right candidate.
 
In her new role, Ms. Toner will work with the Head Start manager and key public and private partners to create and implement a cross-sector plan. She will also provide professional development for early learning for those working with Pre-Kindergarten through 5th Grade.

Ms. Toner is currently the principal at Leschi Elementary, a position she has held since 2009. Previously, she was the principal at Loyal Heights Elementary and a teacher at Bagley Elementary. She has experience teaching Montessori pre-school, kindergarten, Montessori kindergarten/first grade and second grade summer school. She has been extensively involved in the work that has been occurring in the Early Learning department.

The hiring team — which included the Executive Director of Schools, the Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction, content managers, principals and city partners — was particularly impressed with Ms. Toner’s leadership style and her district work with Montessori focus and PreK–5 literacy. Her knowledge of PreK–5 instruction, engagement with current partners and grants experience provide a basis for the work to continue. Her vision for Early Learning will enable the department to grow.

Ms. Toner earned a Master’s in Teaching from Seattle University with an elementary endorsement and completed her undergraduate degree from the same school, majoring in humanities. She holds an Educational Specialist degree (Ed. S.) in education administration with principal certification, and received a Readers Workshop Administrative Supervision certificate.

For the remainder of the school year, Ms. Toner will continue to serve as Leschi principal, while also beginning her new duties, and will divide her time between the school and JSCEE. We will be providing additional administrative support to Leschi Elementary.
 
Please join me in congratulating Cashel Toner on her selection as the Director of Early Learning.

Sincerely,



José Banda
Superintendent
Seattle Public Schools

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