PRESS RELEASE
March 13, 2025
Gowan Science Academy Appoints New Principal
Yuma, AZ – The Crane Elementary School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Alissa Guevara as the new principal of Gowan Science Academy, effective on July 1, 2025. Mrs. Guevara is the school’s Assistant Principal and will transition into the principalship when the school’s current principal, Jamie Haines, becomes the new Director of Curriculum for the Crane District in the 2025-2026 school year.
Mrs. Guevara has been with the school district since 2001. She taught elementary grades at Ronald Reagan Elementary School and later Gowan Science Academy. She has continued her professional career at Gowan by serving as a Professional Development Coach, an Assistant Principal, and soon she’ll take the helm as Principal. She’s been instrumental in promoting a collaborative school culture, data-driven instruction, and inclusive learning environments.
The leadership change is a testament to the power of mentorship, collaboration, and shared purpose. Mrs. Guevara and her predecessor, Mrs. Haines, have supported each other for over twenty years, growing into leaders together in the Crane learning community. As Mrs. Haines embarks on her new journey in district administration, she does so knowing that she leaves her tremendous work at Gowan Science Academy in the hands of a leader she trusts wholeheartedly. “Leaving Gowan is bittersweet, but there is no one better suited for this role than Alissa,” said Mrs. Haines. “She is amazing and I know she will be incredible leading the school into the future.”
Mrs. Guevara looks forward to this new chapter. “I am deeply honored and excited to carry on with our vision of continued academic excellence. I am committed to advancing student achievement, fostering innovation, and strengthening the partnerships that make our school a collaborative and successful learning community.”
Superintendent Laurie Doering is excited to welcome Mrs. Guevara to her new role. “Mrs. Guevara has demonstrated her leadership skills and her commitment to our students in various capacities throughout her years at Crane. Together, she and Mrs. Haines have truly built a legacy of excellence at Gowan Science Academy that is evident immediately upon stepping on their campus. We are confident Mrs. Guevara is equipped to continue to provide academic opportunities for Gowan students to not only succeed and achieve, but to thrive and shine."
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