Sausalito Marin City School District names principal

A longtime Bay Area educator has been selected as the new principal for the Sausalito Marin City School District.

Amy Hale, most recently an administrator in Sonoma County schools, was chosen from a field of seven candidates to lead the district’s TK-8 school, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy in Sausalito.

Hale, a Petaluma resident, will replace David Finnane, who departed June 30 to accept a post in the Mill Valley School District. Hale’s salary and start date will be announced at the July 31 board meeting, when her contract is expected to be approved by trustees, superintendent LaResha Huffman said.

“We conducted a comprehensive interview process that included a 14-member panel, and Amy emerged as the unanimous top choice,” Huffman said. “This strong endorsement was a key factor in my decision.”

Huffman said she was impressed by Hale’s “openness, her deep engagement in classroom instruction and learning walks and her ability to collaborate with teachers to analyze and act on student data.”

Hale “brings valuable expertise in special education and demonstrates a clear commitment to building strong partnerships with families, the community, educators and central office,” Huffman said.

Hale, in a letter to the community, said she was accepting the role “with humility and excitement, knowing that MLK Academy has much to teach me.”

Hale said she was drawn to the school by its “deep commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and, most importantly, kindness.”

“The family feel of this community is something I truly value, and I look forward to becoming a part of it,” she said.

Hale has more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, assistant principal and principal. Most recently, she was assistant principal at Montgomery High School in Santa Rosa and principal at Yulupa Elementary School in Santa Rosa. She also was interim principal at Grant Elementary School in Petaluma.

Hale, who started her career as a high school English teacher, also has held positions in Palo Alto, San Mateo, Pleasanton and Marin.

“It is an honor to join this dedicated community of students, families, educators and leaders,” Hale said. “After two decades in education, I understand the anticipation and hope that comes with new leadership.”

Hale said she is particularly passionate about literacy, interdisciplinary learning and equity.

“I believe in project-based learning, culturally responsive teaching and targeted support for English language learners,” she said. “Above all, I will be a champion for every student, educator and family on this campus.”