Dawn Yoshinaga's journey to becoming a principal at Ohlone Elementary School was marked by determination, patience, and a deep commitment to student-centered education. Her tenure, spanning from 2017 to 2022, was characterized by a steadfast focus on fostering student agency, nurturing parent partnerships, and navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Upon reflecting on her initial aspirations, Yoshinaga recalls her mentor, Susan Charles, and her desire to lead at Ohlone. Yoshinaga's journey began at Greendell School where she recognized similarities in philosophy with Ohlone, making Ohlone a perfect fit for her long-held ambition. What drew Yoshinaga to Ohlone was its profound commitment to student agency and parent collaboration. "I was attracted to... the student agency, the student centeredness of Ohlone," she reflects. This alignment with her educational philosophy, rooted in empowering students and fostering partnerships, laid the foundation for her impactful leadership.
Central to Yoshinaga's approach was the belief in the importance of multi-year cohorts, where students could build relationships, mentor one another, and learn at their own pace. "Having that wider range for kids to connect and have that two years together as a cohort is just amazing," she emphasizes. This holistic view of education, transcending grade-level boundaries, exemplified her dedication to meeting students where they are and nurturing their growth. Navigating the intricacies of curriculum adaptation and district integration posed challenges, but Yoshinaga's background in psychology equipped her with insights into meeting students' diverse needs. "Having that wider span allows kids to not feel like they're behind or well ahead... They're just able to be who they are," she explains. This inclusive approach ensured that every student received tailored support and opportunities for growth.
Yoshinaga's tenure coincided with the unprecedented disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, presenting unforeseen challenges. The absence of parents on campus was particularly poignant, but she commends their grace and resilience during this trying period. "That was really hard for them... They gave me a lot of space to make some really hard decisions," she reflects. Despite the distance, parent engagement remained crucial, with virtual tours and ongoing communication efforts sustaining the sense of community. As Ohlone navigated the complexities of remote learning and eventual return to campus, Yoshinaga prioritized consistency and collaboration. "It was important to keep everything as consistent as possible in a time that was super inconsistent," she affirms. Teachers, parents, and students rallied together, exemplifying resilience and adaptability in the face of uncertainty.
Throughout her tenure, Yoshinaga emphasized the importance of parental involvement and community partnership. "We want to make sure that all parents can participate ... in some way," she stresses. Whether through core values committees, hands-on involvement in school activities, or contributing from home, parents played a pivotal role in shaping the Ohlone experience.
Since leaving Ohlone in 2022, Yoshinaga has been the Director of Mental Health and Wellness for PAUSD. Looking ahead, she emphasizes dedication to student empowerment and community cohesion. "You're part of their education ... a partner and a team member," she emphasizes. As Ohlone continues to evolve, Yoshinaga's vision of inclusive education and collaborative engagement remains a guiding light, ensuring that every student thrives in a supportive and nurturing environment.
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