Assistant Prinicpals of Mt. Rainier High School of Des Moines, Washington

Mr. Powell begins his third year here at Mount Rainier High School, but is not new to Highline School District. He served as an Assistant Principal from 2001-2008. He also served as an Assistant Principal at Aviation High School. He started teaching in 1976 at Cascade Junior High School and moved to Kent-Meridian High School in 1989 where he taught High School English served as a team leader of the Applied Science and Technology Academy. He was also instrumental in getting the International Baccalaureate Program started at KM. He also coached the Girls Basketball team, winning the State Championship in 1995.

Derek is a graduate of Seattle University, where he earned both a B.A. in English as well as an M.A. in Educational Administration. His wife, Elaine, taught at Chinook Elementary School in Auburn, is now retired. They have two sons, Christopher who is a Policeman in Auburn, and David, who is in an attorney in California.

Mount Rainier Principal Julie Hunter

Michael O'Donnell

Where did you grow up? I grew up at Lake Cle Elum, just on the other side of Snoqualmie Pass.
Where did you go to high school? I attended Cle Elum-Roslyn High School and graduated with the class of 1986.
Were you involved in any sports or activities? I lettered four years in football and track — my favorite sport was pole vaulting — quite a rush! I was active in the ASB as well a FBLA. I was also the editor of our high school newspaper.
Where did you go to College? I went to Washington State University and then served in the US Air Force in Central America and the Persian Gulf. I then attended Central Washington University where I received my Bachelors degree in Business Education and my teaching certificate. I then attended Capella University and received my Masters degree in Educational Leadership and my principal certification.
Do you have children? My daughter, Brynne, is currently a 6th grader and an accomplished pianist and dancer — her favorite dance styles are Irish and clogging. My son, Coulson, is currently a Freshman. He plays football, wrestles in the heavyweight division, and is an all-state violinist.
What do you do for fun? I love just about everything related to technology, camping with my kids, and riding my motorcycle. I can't say I really like running but I have ran a few marathons — the last one being the Rock-n-Roll Seattle this past June. I also travel in the summers to teach for Oracle (a technology company). The past few summers I have taught in Cairo, Amsterdam, and New Delhi.
Do you have a favorite food? Everything but cheese. Oh, and I have a definite weakness for salted caramel ice cream.
What do you want parents and students to know about you as a leader? I have hope for every student — our job is to give you the tools to help you achieve your dreams — your job is to realize what your dreams can be.

Last Updated ( Tuesday, 04 October 2011 )