The district is excited to welcome Katie Navarrette to the position of Chief Academic Officer. Navarette brings a wealth of experience from both the public school system and the private sector.
Navarrette holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology, with a minor in Organizational Health and Safety from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. In the private sector, she worked in production resources at Frito Lay and later as a training manager at Ruiz Foods. Her experiences in these jobs not only strengthened her leadership skills but also helped her to understand the knowledge and skills our students will need to successfully transition into the workforce.
After earning her teaching credential, she taught science in Fresno Unified where she later served as an academic coach in the area of Science. She then led the Career Technical Education (CTE) program at Duncan Polytech High School before moving to Madera Unified where she served as Coordinator for and later the Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction in the district.
Navarrette has a strong desire to serve the students and staff at Washington Unified. “The thing I enjoy most is helping others to grow and be the best version of themselves that they can be,” stated Navarette. She is looking forward to getting to know the staff and students in the district. “This year is about spending time with our staff, inside classrooms and seeing what really works best for kids.” Navarette has been impressed with the sense of community extended to her at Washington Unified and looks forward to working with staff to improve student achievement.