Dr. Brian Grass is the newly appointed principal of Mountain Elementary School. Photo Courtesy LAPS 

LAPS NEWS

Los Alamos Public Schools is pleased to announce that Dr. Brian Grass has accepted the position of principal at Mountain Elementary School.

“Dr. Grass joins us with many positive recommendations about leadership, developing staff and knowledge of education,” Supt. Kurt Steinhaus commented in an announcement to staff about the appointment. He thanked the interview committee for their thoughtful work and noted that they had a strong pool of candidates. 

Dr. Grass replaces Jennifer Kieltyka who will be working in the district in another role supporting special education students.

“The district looks forward to having her expertise with special education students,” said Asst. Supt. Jennifer Guy.

Dr. Grass has a bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Arizona. He earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and, most recently, his doctorate from the University of Southern California, completing his dissertation on full inclusion of students with Autism into general education.

 He has been a school coordinator for GATE and English Language Learners and an Assistant Principal in charge of Special Education. Dr. Grass was most recently the Principal of Yorkdale Elementary in Highland Park, Calif. He enjoys running and hiking.

“I feel that it is not the ‘what’ or the ‘how’ of a school that sets it apart from its peers, but the WHY,” said Dr. Grass. “I am confident that a growth mindset and a belief in a shared ‘service’ oriented leadership style arms me with the attitude and experience to help lead Mountain Elementary.”

 His philosophy aligns with the LAPS goal that every child will thrive. “Every child deserves to know that they are valued and loved and can achieve,” Dr. Grass explained. “No child falls behind without everyone joining hands to help. Kids get only one childhood; I am here to help make it the most remarkable time that I can.”