FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Experienced educator and community member brings passion for Native culture and educational excellence to leadership role
Indian Island, ME – The Indian Island School Committee is pleased to announce the selection of Ms. Mingwun Dana as the new Principal of Indian Island Elementary School. Ms. Dana, a current First Grade teacher at the school and member of the local community, will begin her new role following the completion of the selection process.
Ms. Dana brings a unique combination of educational expertise and deep community roots to her new position. A graduate of the University of Maine with a Master's degree in Educational Leadership (4.0 GPA), she has demonstrated exceptional commitment to student success throughout her seven-year teaching career.
"We are thrilled to have Ms. Mingwun Dana step into this leadership role," said Dr. Reza Namin, Superintendent of Maine Indian Education. "Her deep understanding of our community's values, combined with her proven track record of educational innovation and student success, makes her the ideal candidate to lead Indian Island Elementary School into the future. Mingwun's commitment to both academic excellence and cultural preservation aligns perfectly with our mission to provide quality education while honoring our heritage."
Educational Excellence and Innovation During her time as a Kindergarten teacher at Center Drive School in Orrington, Dana distinguished herself by implementing innovative programs including a comprehensive PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) system and developing effective classroom management strategies that significantly improved student motivation and behavior. Her "gem jar" reward system became a model for building positive classroom communities centered on respect and kindness.
Community Connection and Cultural Leadership As a member of the Indian Island community, Ms. Dana brings invaluable perspective on maintaining and strengthening cultural experiences for Native students. She has actively collaborated on interdisciplinary units supporting both literacy skills and Native American culture, working to ensure students remain connected to their traditions while excelling academically.
"I am excited about the opportunity to start my educational leadership journey in the community I am from," Dana stated in her application. "Building relationships with students and their families, maintaining cultural experiences for our children, and supporting teachers to meet the needs of all students are fundamental to our success as a school and community."
Ms. Dana's appointment reflects the school's commitment to educational excellence while honoring and preserving Native American heritage and community values.
About Indian Island Elementary School. Indian Island Elementary School serves the Penobscot Nation community, providing quality education through home/school/community partnerships that empower students to be lifelong learners while maintaining strong connections to their cultural heritage.