Ariana L. Wright

Kasson-Mantorville Elementary School
Kasson-Mantorville Public Schools
Kasson, Minnesota
a.wright@komets.k12.mn.us

Ariana L. Wright leads with an “all means all” philosophy, aiming to ensure that all students, regardless of gender, ethnicity, economic status, disability, or other factors, are represented in the decisions that impact them. This commitment to inclusion is also reflected in her strong belief in a strengths-based approach to teaching and professional development, which has been the hallmark of her principalship at Kasson-Mantorville Elementary School (KMES). In her seven years of leadership, Wright has successfully established a culture of constant growth that aims to unlock the potential of the entire school community. This ethos permeates all systems at KMES, which Wright has carefully refined throughout her tenure, from PLCs to student-teacher conferences to evaluations and goal setting. Wright’s commitment to individual and team-level coaching extends beyond her building, and she has been recognized for outstanding peer support in her region with the Southeast Division Leadership Award by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association. Under Wright’s stewardship, KMES has led the region over the last four years in adopting the Fountas and Pinnell Classroom curriculum for reading and Bridges curriculum for math, leading to all grade levels improving at above average rates. Wright holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Luther College, a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning from St. Mary’s University, and an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Minnesota State University, Mankato.