Princeton associate principal Dawn Stallard to retire after 34-year education career

Dawn Stallard, associate principal and freshman principal at Princeton High School, told community members on the Viking Voices program that she will retire after this school year, citing a desire to spend more time with family after 34 years in education.

Stallard outlined a long career that began in special education and progressed through roles including transition coordinator, special education director and interim superintendent at a Department of Developmental Disabilities before returning to Princeton in several leadership roles. “I’m retiring after this year. The plans right now are just to spend some time with my family,” Stallard said.

Stallard described her time at Princeton as “home,” noting the school’s community connections and the satisfaction she finds in working directly with students. She said her favorite role was any that provided “kid time,” and that the relationships with staff and students have been the most meaningful part of her career.

During the interview she also acknowledged student achievements: Jennifer Barrera Mendoza, a senior and a Hero of Character Award recipient, described being nominated for the award because of characteristics noticed by her peers and school staff. Stallard encouraged the community to continue supporting the district and its students: “I hope that everybody goes out and supports our district because personally these students mean so much to me and our staff means so much to me,” she said, linking community support to student opportunities.

Stallard said she plans to remain connected to the community and attend events even after retirement.