Principal's Corner

Principal – Emily Hays

Emily Hays is proud to serve as the principal of Opstad Elementary, a school community dedicated to engaging, educating, and empowering all learners. She began her journey at Opstad in 2018 as a Literacy Language Specialist and later served as assistant principal at both Opstad and Cascade View Elementary Schools. Before moving to Washington, she worked in Illinois as a Reading Interventionist and Special Education teacher.

Emily is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) at Murray State University. She holds two Master of Education degrees from the University of Illinois—one in Educational Administration & Leadership and another in Special Education. She also earned her Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Elementary Education from Indiana University.

Mrs. Hays and her family live in North Bend. Their oldest son is a senior at the University of Washington, and their two younger children are proud Ravens at Twin Falls Middle School. She is deeply committed to the power of family partnerships and strives to cultivate a school environment that is engaging, rigorous, and rich with authentic learning experiences.

“It is my hope and goal to partner with families in collaboration with staff to make each year at Opstad full of engaging, rigorous, and authentic learning.”

Dean of Students – Kimberly Lanman

Kimberly Lanman serves as the Dean at Opstad Elementary, bringing over 20 years of experience in elementary education. She began her career teaching 1st and 2nd grade, later stepping into the role of Dean of Students at her previous school. Most recently, she has supported multilingual learners in grades K–5, ensuring all students feel seen, valued, and empowered to succeed.

Throughout her career, Kimberly has led professional development focused on GLAD strategies, PBIS, schoolwide Tier 1 interventions, and MTSS. She is deeply committed to fostering positive relationships with students and staff and is excited to support and collaborate with teachers in her new role.

Kimberly earned her degree from Miami University of Ohio and completed her student teaching at Ramstein Air Force Base in Ramstein, Germany—a formative experience that shaped her global perspective on education.

She now lives in North Bend with her husband, their daughter, a high school senior, and their son, who is in 8th grade. Outside of school, she enjoys being outdoors, watching football and spending time with friends and family. Kimberly is honored to join the leadership team and looks forward to helping all students thrive.