Earlier in the spring, the Newcastle, WA community was surprised that Marla Newton announced her resignation as principal of Newcastle Elementary. Issaquah School District Superintendent Ron Thiele launched a search for the next principal, calling on residents and educators within and outside of the district to recommend their top picks for her replacement.
Richard Mellish was named Newton’s successor on June 23, 2014. Mellish served as the principal of West Mercer Elementary School within the Mercer Island School District. His track record of parent and teacher collaboration and engagement set him apart from other candidates. Mr Mellish will welcome students to Newcastle Elementary September 4, 2014, the first day of school for the Issaquah School District.