Submitted by Tumwater School District
Tumwater School District is delighted to announce the appointment of Heidi Center-Howden as the new Principal of Michael T. Simmons Elementary. Heidi has a rich record of educational leadership, and her background/experience demonstrates her commitment to create a positive learning environment for all students. Her experience shows that she has worked tirelessly to create a school where students are able to learn in a safe and inclusive environment. Heidi brings a wide range of experience and is excited to lead Michael T. Simmons towards even greater success.
Heidi holds a Masters of Arts in Education from Lesley University. She earned her Bachelors from Pacific Lutheran University, and earned her Administrator Credentials from Western Governors University. Her distinguished career in education began in 2001 when she started teaching in Tumwater School District and has taught at both Littlerock Elementary and Peter G. Schmidt Elementary schools. In 2015 she became a Math Instructional Facilitator at Peter G. Schmidt where she served until 2018 when she became a Math Intervention Teacher, also at PGS. Her administrative internship took place at PGS and she spent two years serving as an administrative substitute throughout the district. She has been serving as the Assistant Principal at Peter G. Schmidt since 2020. As an educator and administrator, Heidi has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating a positive learning environment while inspiring students to achieve their highest potential. She consistently takes a positive approach while working with students, staff and families, and demonstrates a passion for making connections with families to create strong partnerships that benefit their students.
Superintendent Kevin Bogatin shares, “We are thrilled to welcome Heidi Center as the new Michael T. Simmons Elementary Principal. “She has consistently demonstrated positive leadership, and has a strong commitment to creating a safe and respectful atmosphere for students to learn and staff to work. We believe that under Heidi’s leadership, Michael T. Simmons will continue to be a place where students grow and that the school will continue to be a great place for learning and belonging.”
