Tara Longfellow
Yelm
Summary
Results-oriented educational leader with 25+ years of experience in Washington State, with a proven track record in managing student support programs and improving student outcomes. Known for a collaborative approach and flexibility in meeting changing needs. Demonstrates proficiency in conflict resolution and program development.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Administrator Intern
Yelm Community Schools
Yelm, WA
09.2024 - Current
- Implementing a system to coordinate a giving closet with our transition program.
- Learned the system for Leavers, Safety Net, and Disproportionality.
- Trained in methods to manage the budget at the school and district level.
- Maintained accurate records and documentation, supporting compliance with district, state, and federal policies and regulations.
Special Education Teacher
Yelm Community Schools
Yelm, WA
09.2018 - Current
- Developed, implemented, and managed individualized education plans (IEPs) to address diverse student needs.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to enhance the classroom environment.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to assess student progress and adapt instructional methods.
- Facilitated, trained, and mentored new staff on effective teaching strategies for special education.
- Trained in LETRS.
5th Grade General Education Teacher
Yelm Community Schools
Yelm, WA
09.2016 - 06.2018
- Fostered inclusive classroom environments promoting collaboration and respect among students.
- Integrated technology within the fifth-grade curriculum to enhance the alignment of lesson plans with the Common Core Standards.
- Assessed student progress through various evaluation methods, ensuring targeted support for individual needs.
- Collaborated with parents and staff to enhance student outcomes and address concerns effectively.
Middle School Teacher
Clover Park School District
Lakewood, WA
09.2014 - 06.2016
- Designed, implemented, and aligned engaging lesson plans aligned with the Common Core Standards.
- Functioned as a member of the District Science and Science Fair Committees, as well as the Science department Chair, while at the middle school level.
- Contributed to the Math and Science curriculum for sixth grade.
- Trained in AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination)
Classroom and Fine Arts Teacher
Clover Park School District
Lakewood, WA
11.1999 - 06.2014
- Focused on collecting and analyzing data to differentiate instruction in Reading and Math.
- Piloted district-wide Math, Science, and Reading curricula for all elementary students.
- Initiated a partnership with Pierce County for water testing and with PLU for the Math Olympics team
- Managed student store, ASB, and Ignite (student leadership program)
- Taught 2nd-5th grade as a general education teacher (13 years).
- Taught K-5th grade as a fine arts teacher (2 years).
Education
Educational Specialist - Educational Leadership
George Fox University
Newberg, OR05-2026
Master of Arts - Science Education
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT04-2020
Master of Education - Curriculum And Instruction
University of Washington
Tacoma08-2004
Bachelor of Arts - Education
Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma, WA01-1999
Skills
- Educational Leadership
- Curriculum Development
- Budget Management
- Staff Supervision
- Student Performance Improvement
- Event Coordination
- Parent Engagement
- Enrollment Management
- Collaborative Problem-solving
Certification
- Principal Certification-Oregon Nov. 2025, Washington February 2026.
- Nationally Board Certified endorsed as a Middle Childhood Generalist- Initially received 2008 -current.
- Washington Teaching Certificate endorsed in K-8 elementary education, K-12 special education, middle school math and science- Initially received 1999-current.
Timeline
Administrator Intern
Yelm Community Schools
09.2024 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Yelm Community Schools
09.2018 - Current
5th Grade General Education Teacher
Yelm Community Schools
09.2016 - 06.2018
Middle School Teacher
Clover Park School District
09.2014 - 06.2016
Classroom and Fine Arts Teacher
Clover Park School District
11.1999 - 06.2014
Educational Specialist - Educational Leadership
George Fox University
Master of Arts - Science Education
Western Governors University
Master of Education - Curriculum And Instruction
University of Washington
Bachelor of Arts - Education
Pacific Lutheran University