Staff

Mary Gordon

Master of Science in Education Administration; Reading Specialist Degree, Drake University

Mary Gordon has been in education for over 30 years, including principal of Greenwood Elementary School, Windsor Elementary School, and Howe Elementary School in Des Moines, Iowa. She has been a consultant and writer for the Perfection Form Publishing Company.

Mary was a teacher, grades K-6, before being a reading and math coordinator for the Des Moines Public Schools remedial reading and math programs. She was an elementary principal during her last 15 years in the Des Moines Public Schools.

Mary was described by the Des Moines Register as having a relentless commitment in supporting young readers. She was once quoted in Time magazine regarding the need to support all learners.

She was awarded the Life Achievement Award by the Iowa P.T.A. for working closely with parents, students, and fellow administrators in ensuring student success.

Mary was given Drake University's School of Education Distinguished Alumni Award in 2008.

She is currently on a live monthly radio broadcast in San Luis Obispo, California; "Ask the Principal."

Lisa Royal

B.S. in elementary education and
Master's Desgree in mental health counseling

Lisa taught kindergarten in the Des Moines Public School District for five years, working with a diverse population of students from a wide variety of backgrounds. Lisa subsequently served as an Elementary Counselor for Des Moines Public Schools, where she worked closely with students, parents, teachers, and administrators. Lisa has experience providing individual and small group counseling, and acting as a consultant and liason between students, teachers, and families.