From our Principal

Dear Students and Families,

It is my great honor to serve the Samantha Smith Elementary School community as principal. At Samantha Smith, students are inspired and supported in their learning, families are celebrated and welcomed as partners in education, and staff is valued and appreciated for their expertise and care.

For those who haven’t met me, let me introduce myself. I was raised in Redmond, Washington and received my undergraduate degree from Western Washington University and master’s in educational technology from City University. I taught for 20 years in the Lake Washington school district in a variety of roles (science specialist, 1st – 5th grade, 1st/2nd Full-Time Quest). I earned my master’s in administrative leadership from the University of Washington. This will be my fifth year as an administrator in LWSD.

On a personal note, I enjoy spending time boating, traveling, and walking the dog with my husband and our two college aged sons who both attend Gonzaga University. We are all in on the Zags as our oldest rows on the Crew team and youngest plays for the Bulldog Band and travels with the basketball team! We are enjoying this stage of life launching young adults and exploring new interests!

As we launch the 2022-2023 school year, we do so with great anticipation of returning to many of the traditions and celebrations enjoyed pre-pandemic. We look forward to welcoming families back to campus for events, embracing volunteers, and being in community together. And while we are excited to regain a sense of normalcy in how we do school, we acknowledge the tremendous hardships and losses suffered this past two years that leave us changed as individuals and a society. It is my deep hope that our school and community will be a place of healing and kindness; where students, families, and staff will be united in their passion for supporting each other as we seek to realize the collective dreams of our students.

Samantha Smith is a special place with a rich history and bright future. I look forward to partnering with each of you this year.

With gratitude,

Julie Guest

Principal, Samantha Smith Elementary