Just over 25 years ago, Ms. Katherine Turner graduated from this very school and now she is back as an assistant principal! She has worked as a teacher at various schools across DCPS and MCPS, and as an assistant principal at Stuart-Hobson Middle School for 12 years. This year, Assistant Principal Turner returns to her alma mater. 

Although she graduated in 1999, she reflected on her time as a Walls student. “The spirit of the school is the same, where everyone is very intelligent and very motivated and driven, and wants to do great things in the world,” she explained.

Some of the things that Assistant Principal Turner recalled loving about Walls were the supportive teachers, the incredibly motivated students, and, her favorite part of the day, off campus lunches. Some of the supportive teachers that AP Turner remembered are still here to this day! She had Principal Isaac for AP US History, and Ms. Pokorak for Humanities.

As a student, AP Turner participated in many extracurriculars. She was a devoted cheerleader, helped manage the basketball team and kept the books for them. Additionally, she liked to volunteer at jazz festivals around the city. 

After graduating from School Without Walls in 1999, she went on to study business at Boston College. However, once she got to school, she changed her major and studied English and Secondary Education. After graduating Boston College, she got her Masters in Educational Leadership from Fort Hayes State University. 

Ms. Turner realized that a career in education was something she would both be good at and passionate about. From a young age, she enjoyed school and teaching. “I know that everyone doesn't love school, but I always loved school. I loved teachers. And I just always felt so close to my teachers,” she said. After graduating, she worked as both a teacher and an assistant principal in schools across the DMV. 

As an assistant principal, she ensures that teachers are providing high quality instruction and collaborative opportunities. She also focuses on family and community involvement, school culture, and oversees school logistics. Just recently, Ms. Turner played a leading role in the organization of the club fair and is currently coordinating the grade level family nights for the end of September and early October. 

Ms. Turner believes that it is extremely important for students to get involved in the school community. She feels the best way for students to do this is to join clubs and sports. She recommends that students who are interested in sports connect with Mr. Smith to discuss athletic opportunities. You can find Ms. Turner around school in a bedazzled name tag or at her favorite lunch spot, Panera.