Principal's Message

Dear Washington Families, 

I am honored and humbled to serve as the principal of Washington Elementary School. As I have started to informally transition, it has become obvious to me that Washington Elementary has a strong community that is focused on collaboration along with high expectations for our students. There is a proven track record of excellence because of the hard work of our families and staff. 

My mother, who was a teacher for over thirty years, taught me about the importance of having a strong education.  I am committed to ensuring that ALL students are provided with a robust education that will set them up for success in middle school, high school, college/vocational program/military, and the working world.  I believe in having high expectations for our students, while simultaneously supporting them to meet those expectations.  I began my career in education as a high school mathematics teacher and dance team coach.  I spent four years as an assistant principal at both Alliance Neuwirth Leadership Academy (9th-12th grade) in South Central Los Angeles and Woodworth Monroe TK-8th Grade Academy in Inglewood.  Most recently, I served as the principal for Oak Street TK-8th Grade for the Inglewood Unified School District.  With this experience, I look forward to working with the Washington staff, students and families, as we continue to build upon the school’s many successes.

I am very fortunate to have the support of a wonderful family.  My husband Billy, and my two kids, Peter and Dorothy, ages 2 and 5 weeks, and our dog Jeter.  My son Peter recently enrolled in a dual immersion preschool and we are excited to embark into the world of dual immersion as parents!  

Once I get started, I will schedule two opportunities to meet with parents/guardians and stakeholders. I will schedule a Coffee and Chat one morning and a Meet and Greet one evening. More information will be shared soon. Don’t worry if you are unable to attend either of these events. I plan to be at the gate in the mornings and after school, so please don’t hesitate to come up to me and introduce yourself. I am looking forward to meeting each and every one of you.

I would like to thank Dr. Kelly for serving as the interim principal over the last few months. She is an incredible asset to the RBUSD community and we are lucky to have her expertise and support. I had the opportunity to have a soft start during the last two weeks and I will continue to work with Dr. Kelly to ensure a seamless transition.  She has incredible knowledge and her experience has helped me quickly learn why Washington Elementary has such an amazing school culture.

I look forward to joining a school community that focuses on working together to help students succeed. I feel grateful to be a part of this team, and I can’t wait to get started. See you at our morning exercises!

Sincerely, 

Alyssa O’Grady, Ed.D.

Principal, Washington Elementary