Aaron Miller – Associate Principal

Location: Islander Middle School

Job Description: As associate principal, Aaron works in tandem with the principal, Mary Jo Budzius, in overseeing the operation of the middle school.

Typical day: On most days, Aaron’s calendar is booked with whatever needs to be done, such as coordinating facility issues, student discipline concerns, or communicating with student, staff or parent groups. “A day without anything on my calendar is rare,” Aaron says, “and that kind of day fills up quickly.” In between tasks, Aaron pops into classrooms and hallways to interact with students. “This is a job that requires flexibility and multitasking,” says Aaron.

Best part of the job: Getting to know the kids and developing relationships that make coming to work worthwhile. Aaron, who hails from a family of teachers, says, “I have always wanted to work with middle school students. There’s a uniqueness to them and they create a positive buzz around the school.”

Something people may not know: Aaron grew up in Kent and, after graduating from Kentridge High School, considered becoming a lawyer. “The law seemed like a field I might do well in, because my brain works in a concrete, sequential way. But after my first political science course I felt disappointed. So I decided to go into teaching because working with kids keeps you vibrant and in touch with the world.“ He got his BA at Western, and his Masters of Teaching and Education Administration at Grand Canyon University in Arizona. Aaron began his teaching career in the Kent school district—six years as a middle school classroom teacher, and one year as Dean of Students.
Years worked in district: Five years.
Outside Interests: Aaron lives in Maple Valley with his wife Trez, daughter Kylie, age five, and son Jack, age 4. In his (rare) spare time, Aaron likes to golf and play softball.