Warsaw Community Schools has selected David Burden as the principal of Washington STEM Academy pending school board approval.
David Burden earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2008. He went on to earn a High Ability Certificate in 2011 and his Master of Science in Educational Leadership in 2019. David began his teaching career in North Carolina and moved to Washington STEM Academy in August of 2013.
In 2016, David transitioned to become an Instructional Coach for Washington STEM Academy and for Madison Elementary. David was instrumental in the original STEM certification of Madison Elementary and in the recertification of Washington STEM Academy. In June of 2020, David Burden accepted a position as Principal for LaVille Elementary.
Welcoming David Burden as the next principal of Washington STEM Academy, Madison Principal Ben Barkey noted, “David’s repertoire of skills enable him to be an asset to our school corporation. He possesses a very kind and caring attitude and is known as a positive role model to the students, staff, and parents he interacts with.”
WCS Superintendent Dr. David Hoffert added, “David understands the importance of investing into students through education, emotional support, and time well-spent, as they are our future leaders. I am confident that David Burden will continue the tradition of Washington staying a national leader in STEM education.”
Dr. David Robertson, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education, agreed, “We are excited to watch David build on the rich legacy at Washington STEM. David brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position. The future is bright at Washington!”
David and his wife Valerie have two sons and a daughter. Ezra, age eight, and brother Josiah, age six, will both be students at Washington STEM Academy this coming school year. Their sister Elliana is only three, but she’ll also be a proud Hornet in a few years. Valerie, a Warsaw graduate from the Class of 2004, is excited to be moving back to her hometown and is expecting the couple’s fourth child in May.
Tom Ray recently announced his retirement after serving as the principal for Washington STEM Academy for 22 years. Tom contributed, “David is kind, compassionate, loving, empathetic, and is an example of THE WASHINGTON WAY. He will help Warsaw Community Schools move the mission forward with honor and dignity.”
David Burden shared his appreciation for this opportunity adding, “Tom Ray is an amazing mentor and friend. I am so fortunate to have learned under his leadership over the years. Tom’s impact and presence will be missed by everyone, including me. I am incredibly humbled to carry on his legacy of excellence in STEM education and his example of servant leadership.”
Warsaw Community Schools thanks Tom Ray for his 22 years of remarkable service to the district and community and welcomes David Burden as the next principal of Washington STEM Academy.
