Welcome to another school year! I’m excited to introduce myself, Susie Askew, as the new principal of Spanaway Lake High School. I come to Bethel School District from Lincoln High School in Tacoma. I’m going into my 20th year as an educator, starting in Los Angeles, then in Puyallup, Tacoma, and now Bethel. As a former English teacher, I have enjoyed getting to know the stories of this community. I look forward to hearing many more throughout the year!  

I have taught at Stewart Middle School, Puyallup High School, and at the University of Puget Sound. I have also spent most of my life as a formal student. I love to learn. This love of learning has always pushed me to prioritize “meaning making” in my work. My primary goal is to ensure that students and families describe their time at Spanaway Lake as meaningful; this is no easy task considering the diversity of needs that often exists in schools.

As a first generation college student, I understand the varied needs of students and look forward to supporting all of our students through their high school journey. As a parent of a Bethel student, I understand the celebrations and concerns a parent has around their child navigating school programs.  As a parent of two teenagers, I understand the joys and worries of raising young adults. The love and care I bring to my work mimics what I want for my own children.

I look forward to a great year! I want to learn from each other and continue to make Spanaway Lake High School a strong community that supports students’ growth. If you have any questions, concerns, or celebrations you want to share with me, please email me with the best way to reach out to you.

Susie Askew

Principal

saskew@bethelsd.org

253-683-5689