Congratulations to Dr. JoAnn Schwarting, the 2021 DVUSD Principal of The Year, as she takes over the reins of Inspiration Mountain School. Dr. Schwarting has served the Deer Valley Unified School District since 2005. She taught seventh grade English language arts at Desert Mountain School for seven years. She then transferred to Desert Sky Middle School where she assumed the roles of instructional coach and assistant principal. Most recently, Dr. Schwarting spent the last six years leading Desert Mountain School as principal.

Though it is bittersweet leaving her current school, Schwarting is up for the challenge and eager for the opportunity. “I am absolutely thrilled to be given the honor of serving this beautiful community. My goal is to nurture a school environment that is caring and connected. I believe partnerships are necessary when educating our students, so I'm looking forward to developing strong family and community ties. To paraphrase a passage from Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places You’ll Go! " We’re off to great places! Today is our day! Our mountain is waiting, we’re on our way!”

After serving four years in the United States Navy, Dr. Schwarting earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University, a Master of Arts in Educational Administration and Supervision from Northern Arizona University, and a Doctorate in Education Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University.

When she is not actively involved in supporting the Deer Valley community, Dr. Schwarting enjoys spending time with her husband, her four sons, three daughters, and five grand dogs.