After a decade of serving as principal of Pioneer High School, Sandi Reese announced her retirement at the end of this school year. Known for her dedication to student learning, teacher collaboration, and a deep connection to the school community, Reese leaves behind a lasting legacy.

Reese, who has served as principal throughout her entire tenure at Pioneer, followed in the footsteps of her parents when she chose a career in education. Both her parents were educators and administrators. Reese started her career as a classroom teacher and eventually found her calling in leadership. She has since made a positive impact in our community by supporting both teacher growth and student achievement.

“I think I am most proud of the work we have all done around instituting robust Professional Learning Communities (PLCs),” said Reese. “Our teachers work together to bring an aligned, sensible, rigorous curriculum to our students. I’m also proud of the increase in dual enrollment offerings, which I believe will begin to change the face of high school education.”

Under Reese’s leadership, Pioneer High School has strengthened academic opportunities and fostered a strong culture of collaboration among staff. Her student-centered approach and commitment to educational excellence have earned her the respect of her colleagues and the partnership of the school community.

Woodland Joint Unified School District Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin praised Reese for her leadership and contributions to Pioneer High School.

“She has led with heart, vision, and an unwavering belief in what our students and staff are capable of achieving,” Ortega-Lampkin stated. “Sandi has left her mark on Pioneer High School, and we are deeply grateful for her years of service and leadership.”

As she heads into retirement, Reese shared that she will miss the Pioneer community.

“I will miss it all,” she said. “I absolutely adore our kids, who I think are just great, despite living in a difficult time right now. The relationships I have formed with the faculty and staff will also be hard to let go of. The teachers are all so hard-working and conscientious. I’m proud to call many of them my friends.”

To her students, Reese offered parting advice: “Never underestimate the power of your voice. Speak up for what is right, chase your passions relentlessly, and embrace the beautiful messiness of learning. Remember, you are not defined by your mistakes. You are formed by them. Every setback is a setup for a comeback. Stay curious, stay kind, and never stop growing.”

Reese plans to stay active in retirement by learning American Sign Language, traveling, camping, kayaking, and possibly joining a singing group. She also intends to work as an administrative coach to support new school leaders.

As a message to her colleagues, Reese said, “You are the architects of possibility, the spark that ignites a lifetime of learning. Never forget the profound impact you have on the lives of your students. Continue to work together in all the ways you have learned in these past few years. Collaboration is the last, best hope of education. Take care of yourselves as you take care of others. I deeply admire and respect you. Live long… and prosper.”Long-time education professional Heather King will succeed Reese after being approved by the WJUSD Board of Trustees earlier this month.

With more than 20 years of experience in public education, King brings a strong background in instructional leadership, student achievement, and staff development. She most recently served as director of instruction at Visions in Education. Before that, she served as principal of Foothill High School in the Twin Rivers Unified School District.

King’s career also includes assistant principal roles at Rio Linda High School and Sheldon High School, as well as experience as a leadership coach with the Sacramento County Office of Education. She holds a master’s degree in education from Chapman University and a bachelor’s degree in English from Sacramento State University.

“I’m excited to celebrate student successes, build meaningful relationships, and be present for the moments—big and small—that matter most,” she said. “These are the experiences that make being a high school principal the most rewarding job in the world, and I feel incredibly lucky to be doing it here at Pioneer High School and in Woodland.”