Some adults might say going back to middle school would be the last thing they want to do, but for Kent Mountain View Academy Principal Stephanie Knipp, there’s no place she’d rather be. Knipp is an incredible example of Kent School District graduates coming back to benefit our community, she grew up in Kent and graduated from Kentwood High School.

“I remember what an emotional stage it was,” she says. “Now I get to walk alongside students from third grade to graduation and know the different things they’re going through during such an important time in their lives.”  

Spending almost a decade with the same students is unique to KMVA and builds a strong sense of community and belonging amongst their students, staff, and families.  

“I get to build relationships with the whole child, it’s not just about the academics,” Knipp said. “I have time to build trust with families and show them we have their child’s best interests at heart.”  

But that doesn’t mean Knipp isn’t focused on high achievement. Last year, KMVA was the only school in our state to be recognized by the Office of the Superintendent Public Instruction and the Washington State Board of Education for both high achievement and high growth. Knipp attributes this to looking at every child as the whole child and knowing their unique strengths and needs.  

“Our staff is super committed and aligned in our mission and purpose,” she said. “They all bring something different to the table. I love it, there’s no place I’d rather work.” 

Her students and staff agree.  

“She really values us,” Nevada Nelson, a ninth-grade student at KMVA said. “She’s really funny and involved, and she also respects us as young adults.”  

Instructional Facilitator Pat Gallagher has worked with Knipp for most of her career and described her as a “ball of sunshine”.  

“She’s accepting, loving, and caring,” he said. “She’s the best.” 

Read Dr. Knipp’s Principal Message.  

Article Source: Kent Meridian High School