Retirement Announcement for Jerry Gaston & Shelly Gaston

Hello Tahoma Community,

We are reaching out to share that Shelly Gaston and Jerry Gaston will be retiring in June 2026. Shelly currently serves as the principal of Glacier Park Elementary, and Jerry serves as the principal of Tahoma Elementary. Both joined the Tahoma School District in 2005, following many years of service to students in the Kent School District. We are deeply grateful for the countless contributions they have made to our district and know their leadership will be missed by many. At the same time, we are excited for them as they begin this well-deserved next chapter.

Throughout her time in Tahoma, Shelly has served as a 4th grade teacher, instructional coach, and principal. She has been the principal at Glacier Park since 2017.

Jerry has served as a 4th grade teacher, dean/instructional coach, and principal, and has led Tahoma Elementary since 2017, when it first opened as an elementary school.

The district administrative team will establish a comprehensive hiring process to select the next principals for both schools. Additional details about the process and timeline will be shared with staff and families on January 16, 2026.

In the months ahead, please join us in thanking Shelly and Jerry for the dedication, care, and leadership they have provided to the Tahoma community over many years—and in congratulating them as they prepare to enter this exciting new stage of life.

Warmly,
Ginger Callison