BIOGRAPHY:

2019 Living Treasure Katherine White has now been the Mira Monte Elementary principal for two decares, but her passion for education in the Ojai Valley is as evident as the day she began.

Inspired by a teacher in junior high who helped her through a difficult time in her life. "He genuinely cared about my success and inspired me to want to be a teacher so I could make a difference in the lives of students who needed a caring adult."

She and her family fell in love with the natural beauty of Ojai and went straight to the OUSD office and took out an application for teaching.

Her daughters became involved with the Mira Monte 4H Club, leading her to 12 years of volunteer work for their projects. Her daughter became interested in the saxophone and later participated in the Nordhoff HS musicals. This led Katherine to 14 seasons, managing the cast, crew, and production team.

Her most rewarding part of her career is making connections with students, especially those who do not have a support system in place or have experienced trauma.

"I am fortunate to be part of a team of educators who share my goal of working with colleagues and our school community to strengthen relationships and programs that support our students."

She is a member of the Ojai Women's Club and hopes to join Rotary in the future.