Mandi C. Rehn

Opportunity Elementary School
Central Valley School District
Spokane Valley, Washington
mrehn@cvsd.org

Mandi Rehn has served as principal of Opportunity Elementary for nine years, having previously led Michael Anderson Elementary in that capacity for five years. Rehn is passionate about supporting each student academically and beyond. She expanded the school’s Student Study Team from one team to six, ensuring targeted interventions can be quickly implemented for struggling students. The implementation of PBIS has resulted in drastic changes in behavior referrals, with students now engaged in fun, core behavioral awards like earning a Panda Pride Bracelet to demonstrate positive behavior. In 2020, Rehn spearheaded the creation of an equity team, and teachers began meeting through book studies and developing curriculum through an equity lens. When her school went through renovations, Rehn successfully lobbied for the inclusion of a school shower so that homeless students could have access to this resource. She and staff have developed a committee that partners with local businesses and community members to provide gift cards and groceries to struggling families to ensure that each child gets to experience the magic of the holidays. In 2020, the committee supported over 300 students through this program, and the result is a sense of support and a culture of care at Opportunity. Rehn holds a B.A. in Education from Whitworth University, an M.A. in Education from Lesley University, and an Ed.D. and Superintendent Certification from Washington State University.