information from Holy Rosary

Holy Rosary School is pleased to announce the appointment of Anna Horton to the position of principal, effective July 1, 2016. Ms. Horton succeeds Mr. George Hofbauer, who will retire in June after serving with distinction as teacher and principal for 45 years in the Archdiocese of Seattle.

After an extensive search both locally and nationally, Ms. Horton was the unanimous choice of the Principal Search Team. She brings many gifts and talents to the Holy Rosary School community. Her background in science education will help her integrate STEM into all areas of the school. Her knowledge of the latest curriculum as well as her forward-looking philosophy will ensure that Holy Rosary School remains at the leading edge of education. Her contagious energy and enthusiasm will engage parents and students alike. And her faith in Christ will serve as the foundation and driver of it all.

“I came to Holy Rosary initially as a parent,” said Ms. Horton, whose oldest daughter is in Pre-K at the school. “The teachers captivated my heart. As I got to know more about Holy Rosary’s legacy of academic excellence, student leadership and service to the community, I knew this was where I was meant to be and could do great work.”

Ms. Horton holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Zoology and a Masters in Teaching, both from the University of Washington. She has Professional Teaching, Administrative, and Professional Administrative Certifications from Seattle Pacific University. She is currently earning her Doctorate in Educational Administration and Superintendent Certification, both at Seattle Pacific University.

Ms. Horton was previously principal at Dimmitt Middle School, after acting as assistant principal at Lindbergh High School, both in the Renton School District. She began her career as a middle school science teacher.
“Ms. Horton brings tremendous experience in education and curriculum development to Holy Rosary,” said Father Matthew Oakland, pastor of Holy Rosary Church and School. “But I most admire the depth of her Catholic faith, her striving to know and follow Jesus, her service to the community, and how she will engage our students and wider school community to do the same.”

Ms. Horton converted to Catholicism in her early 20s and has been an active and engaged member of St. James Cathedral for many years, acting as the volunteer manager for the men’s shelter since 2001. She and her husband, David, have three daughters and are parishioners of both Holy Rosary and the Cathedral.