Meet the Principal and Assistant Principal

 

Katie Hoffman - Principal

My name is Katie Hoffman, the Principal at Seward Montessori Elementary School. I’m so excited to be a part of the Seward Community! It is my priority that each member of the Seward Community is able to show up and be seen, heard, and understood as their authentic selves. 

I am passionate about interrupting inequitable systems and providing culturally responsive education to students, making collaborative, student centered decisions, and working in partnership with all stakeholders to improve outcomes for EACH student. I am excited to learn more about the Montessori method and have already started some professional development through the National Center for Montessori in the public sector. As I learn more, I find I naturally align with the individualized, student centered approach that empowers students to become independent learners. 

A bit about my background 

I started my career as a school social worker for 10 years moving into special education leadership as a special education coordinator for 6 years. During that time, I obtained my Masters in Education, Director of Special Education licensure and K-12 Principal licensure at Hamline University. The past 11 years, I’ve held several positions as both Assistant Principal and Principal throughout the Twin Cities metro area. In 2015, I was a part of a two year Institute for Courageous School and District Leadership through Mankato State University intended to train school leaders to interrupt systems of racial oppression. This ignited my passion to intentionally isolate race and other marginalized populations as we identify and interrupt longstanding systems of inequity. Ultimately, this is what attracted me to the Minneapolis Public Schools, where there is a commitment to antiracist and culturally responsive education for all students. As a white female, I am committed to leading this challenging work and remaining engaged in the conversation.  

A bit about me outside work

Personally, I live in the Lino Lakes area, have two children and two dogs. My daughter Abby is 20 and is studying pre-law at the University of Pittsburgh.  My son Aiden is 19 and he is currently working and deciding what is next for him. At night you will find me either at Orange Theory Fitness or walking the paths behind my home. I enjoy reading, spending time with close friends, hiking, canoeing, camping, live music, and various cultural events.  

Looking forward to partnering with each of you this school year to best meet the needs of your student.

Contact Me!

Katie Hoffman (she/her/hers)
catherine.hoffman@mpls.k12.mn.us
612-668-4951 

Kevin Jachymowski - Assistant Principal

I am Kevin Jachymowski, the Assistant Principal at Seward Montessori Elementary. I am very excited to join Minneapolis Public Schools for my ninth year in education.  

I am eager to join the diverse Seward community and be leading with a culturally responsive, equitable and anti-racist mindset. I am enthusiastic about creating positive relationships with families, students, staff and community members as well as supporting each student with what they need to feel belonged and successful. As I learn more about the Montessori Method, I continue to find myself resonating with many of its concepts. 

A bit about my background

I have been a fifth grade teacher for much of my career teaching at Cambridge-Isanti and Mounds View Public Schools. While teaching at Mounds View, I completed my Minnesota K-12 Administrative Certificate from Hamline University. Following that, I was an Elementary Dean of Students and Associate Principal in Mounds View. I also have a Masters of Education in K-12 Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida. Embedded in the Hamline curriculum was a strong focus on racial equity and culturally responsive leadership. I am committed to being an advocate for marginalized populations and interrupting systems of oppression.  

A bit about me outside of work

My partner and I currently live in Prior Lake and spend as much time as we can outside. I enjoy spending time with friends, traveling to new places, being near or on the water, and living an active lifestyle. I frequently experiment with new recipes and go for a walk everyday. I am an avid wood-worker, gardener, and most recently became a beekeeper! 

I look forward to getting to know you and your family this fall and throughout the school year!

Contact Me!

Kevin Jachymowski (he/him/his)
kevin.jachymowski@mpls.k12.mn.us
612-668-4957