Principal Andrea Safina to Lead Garton Elementary

Principal Andrea Safina

Garton Elementary School will welcome a new principal this summer as current Greenwood Elementary School Principal Andrea Safina moves to Garton in July.

Safina started working for DMPS two decades ago in Special Education at Adams Elementary School, which later merged with Garton. She served as a literacy leader and dean over the next several years at Monroe, Greenwood, River Woods, and Carver elementary schools. She accepted the role of principal at Greenwood Elementary in 2017. Safina served on the district literacy task force and the elementary Return to Learn planning team.

“I am excited for the opportunity to work alongside the Garton staff and get to know the families and students,” Safina said. “I am looking forward to learning with and from the students and staff as we continue the work of providing a great education.”

Safina earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education and her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction: Literacy Education, both from the University of Northern Iowa. She also has an advanced certificate in both PK-12 Principal Leadership and Special Education.

“Andrea is the perfect match for Garton Elementary, said Tim Schott, executive director of talent support. “In addition to having taught in the neighborhood, she has proven experience as a steady student-focused leader who will be able to step right into that role.”

Safina will work with current Garton Principal Renita Lord on a transition plan as Lord moves to take over as principal at King Elementary School. Both principals will begin their new jobs in July.