Pasadena Unified Announces the Selection of Washington Middle School Principal

The Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) is pleased to announce the selection of Shannon Malone as principal of Washington Middle School, the STEAM Magnet Academy.

“I am pleased to promote Ms. Malone to lead Washington STEAM Magnet,” said Superintendent Brian McDonald. “With her proven track record of effecting sustainable conditions for student achievement, she is qualified to lead the students, staff and community of Washington Middle School and its STEAM magnet to further a culture of success that creates opportunities for every student.”

Ms. Malone has served as Principal of Cleveland Elementary since 2010 and led the school’s focus into science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Under her leadership, the school built two campus gardens that are used to enhance classroom instruction and to engage families and the community in student learning. The Cleveland campus also underwent major construction during Ms. Malone’s tenure.

“It has been my honor to serve as Principal of Cleveland Elementary, where the faculty and community came together to create a STEAM focus for students,” said Ms. Malone. “I am thrilled to bring this insight to Washington, where together we will make positive changes to strengthen the capabilities of our students and prepare them to be successful in high school, college, and beyond.”

Prior to her appointment as Principal of Cleveland, Ms. Malone was the district’s professional development coordinator. Previously, she was the PUSD math coach, served as summer school principal, and was the language development resource teacher at Hamilton Elementary School. She began her career as a Spanish teacher at Manual Arts High School in the Los Angeles Unified School District.

A fluent Spanish speaker, Ms. Malone holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Southern California; a Master’s degree from National University, and an Administrative Credential from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Ms. Malone was selected after a competitive process that included feedback provided by Washington STEAM Magnet stakeholders, students, employees, and parents that informed the development of the new principal profile.

Ms. Malone’s appointment is effective July 1, 2016. Former principal Dr. Merian Stewart has been selected as the new principal of Franklin Elementary.

For more information, visit http://pusd.us/.