Dear Montlake Elementary School Community, 

I am pleased to announce that Tina Wood has been selected as the new principal for Montlake Elementary School. Ms. Wood brings experience in education through her work as the principal of View Ridge Elementary in Everett Public Schools for the past 10 years, two years as an instructional coach, and seven years as a third and fifth grade teacher.  

Throughout her career, Ms. Wood has been committed to helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally while fostering a strong sense of belonging. She believes students thrive when they are both challenged and supported, and she has enjoyed developing opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom.  

Ms. Wood’s work as a principal includes supporting enrichment and intervention programs, fostering student leadership opportunities, strengthening partnerships with families and the broader community, and cultivating a community garden, art program, and health/fitness opportunities for students. These experiences have reinforced her belief that schools are strongest when students, staff, and families work together toward a shared vision for student success and whole-child learning. 

Ms. Wood is a proud Husky! She earned her bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and principal certification from the University of Washington. 

Thank you to Principal Julia Pearson for her leadership as principal at Montlake Elementary for the past eight years. Ms. Wood is committed to building on the strong foundation set by the dedicated staff at Montlake. 

Ms. Wood is looking forward to working with Montlake students, staff, families and community members to make a difference for each student, every day. Her official start date will be July 1. 

Please join me in welcoming Principal Wood to the Montlake school community. 

Sincerely, 

Ben Shuldiner 
Superintendent 

Seattle Public Schools