Hello Manzanita Community!

My name is Katie Barr. It is a great pleasure and privilege to be serving this community as principal for the coming school year.  This opportunity feels like I am coming home.  My sons went to Manzanita when it was Spring Creek/Matanzas and I served on the RVUSD School Board from 2012 - 2016 while my two boys were in elementary school.  I have been a part of this community for some time and I look forward to returning as your principal.

I come to this position with over 28 years of experience - 16 of those as a school administrator.  Prior to coming to Manzanita, I was the principal at Maria Carrillo High School.  I have been a middle and high school classroom teacher, a district/county director, and executive director of family engagement.  I believe these experiences give  me a unique perspective, as I have been a part of the K-12 system at all levels  and I understand what our young people need to thrive beyond our school walls.

One of the aspects of school life that is very important to me is community.  I am looking forward to working with parents, students and staff to create a strong community of belonging - a place where we all feel comfortable and safe, a place where we can be our best selves, and a place where learning is fun!  

When I am not at school, I like to spend my time with my husband and my kids.  Our daughter lives in our community with her three children - the oldest two attend Madrone Elementary School. Our oldest son graduated from Montgomery High School and is attending Utah Valley University to become a firefighter.  Our youngest son is a junior at Maria Carrillo High School. 

At times you may see our Basset Hound, Boss on campus.  He is a trained therapy dog and has been part of my school communities since he was a puppy - he is now eight.

I am so excited to serve the Manzanita community - a place where education is supported and valued.

In Community,

Katie