Cromwell Brings Over a Decade of Experience to Deer Park Elementary

For Brett Cromwell, becoming an educator began with two people who showed him just how much of a difference a teacher can make. After 17 years in education, including time as a classroom teacher, coach, and assistant principal, Cromwell is bringing that same passion for supporting students and families to Deer Park Elementary as its new assistant principal. Cromwell said he was born and raised in Republic, a small town in rural eastern Washington. He eventually returned to his hometown to begin his education career as a second-grade teacher.

"Over 17 fulfilling years in education, I taught everything from second grade to middle school and spent more than 10 seasons coaching middle and high school basketball," Cromwell said. His decision to become a teacher was influenced by both his father and one of his own teachers. Cromwell said his father worked as a heavy diesel mechanic at a local mine before returning to school to become a Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher. His sixth-grade teacher, Mr. Wilson, also had a lasting impact on him. Cromwell said, "Seeing how much impact just one person can have on someone else's life showed me the kind of educator I wanted to be: a source of positive change and support for the next generation."

After spending 17 years teaching in Republic, Cromwell served for two years as assistant principal at Tonasket Elementary before accepting his new position in Deer Park. He said the opportunity to work with Deer Park's youngest learners was one of the things that attracted him to the district. "Deer Park School District is truly the heart of a wonderful community that holds tight to its welcoming, small-town roots," Cromwell said. "Here at DPE (Deer Park Elementary), we have the privilege of serving our youngest learners. Their eyes are bright, their smiles are contagious, and their genuine excitement for learning fills every single classroom. It really is an incredible place to be."

Cromwell said his first impressions of the school have reinforced his decision to join the district. "Our staff are deeply compassionate and kind, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know them while learning how best to support everyone here at DPE," he said. "I feel truly honored to join this wonderful community, and I am so grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received." As he begins his first year in the position, Cromwell said his focus is on building relationships with students, staff, and families. "What Iam most excited about is supporting our staff, students, families, and community as we create an environment where every child achieves at a high level while feeling safe, seen, supported, and heard," he said. For Cromwell, helping others is at the center of his role as an administrator. "My greatest responsibility is also my greatest passion: helping others," he said.

"Every single day brings new opportunities to support our students and staff, and no matter what form that takes, there is simply nothing more rewarding than making a difference for someone else." That support, he said, begins with being visible and accessible throughout the school. Cromwell starts his mornings outside, greeting families and welcoming students as they arrive. During the school day, he visits classrooms, spends time in the cafeteria and playground during lunch and recess, and helps wherever he is needed. "No two days are ever quite the same, but my focus is always on being visible, accessible, and supportive from the first bell to the last," he said.

Cromwell said one of the most important foundations for student success is making sure children feel safe and connected. "Children need to feel secure before they can truly thrive academically," he said. "My hope is to help address this by fostering a welcoming, positive school climate where every child feels seen and supported." His nearly two decades in the classroom also shape the way he works with teachers and support staff. "Having spent 17 years in the classroom, my approach is rooted in deep respect and active support for our staff," Cromwell said. "Teachers and support staff have one of the hardest and most important jobs in the world,” he said, adding, “My role as an administrator is to serve them – listening to their ideas, removing barriers, offering encouragement, and making sure they have the tools and backing they need so they can focus on what they do best: teaching our kids." Cromwell said elementary students need adults who are consistent, compassionate, and present.

"They (students) need to know that we are unconditionally in their corner – cheering them on when they succeed, but also guiding them with patience and understanding when they make mistakes," he said. "Above all, they need to feel safe and truly heard so they can build the confidence to grow both academically and personally." That philosophy also carries into how Cromwell approaches student behavior. "I view behavior as a form of communication," he said. "When a student struggles with their behavior, it usually means there is an unmet need, a missing skill, or an underlying emotion they don't quite know how to handle yet." His approach to discipline is restorative and focused on teaching rather than simply pun- ishment. "We hold high expectations for behavior, but we use tough moments as opportunities to learn, make things right, and teach kids how to make better choices moving forward," Cromwell said. Cromwell also sees families as an important part of a child's education.

"It is absolutely vital. Raising and educating a child truly takes a village, and a student succeeds best when their school and home lives are working in harmony," he said. He plans to build those relationships by being present both inside and outside the school. "You'll see me outside during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up, at school events, and around the community, always ready for a warm conversation," Cromwell said. "I want families to know that my door is open, that their perspective is valued, and that we are true partners in their child's education." Outside of school, Cromwell enjoys camping, thrifting, traveling, and sports.

"Above all, I enjoy relaxing with my family," he said. Family is an important part of Cromwell's life. He credits them with providing the support that has helped him throughout his career. "Family is at the very core of who I am, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the incredible support of my wife, Veronica, and our two sons, Harlen and Nolan," Cromwell said. Despite his many years in education, Cromwell said he continues to find something special about working with elementary students. "What I love most about elementary students is their genuine enthusiasm and curiosity," he said. His advice to students beginning a new school year reflects the philosophy he hopes to bring to Deer Park Elementary. "I would tell them 'Be brave, be kind, and never be afraid to make mistakes,'" Cromwell said.

Success in his new position will not be measured simply by completing administrative tasks. "In my role, I am able to support every person in our building. Whether that is cleaning up a mess in the cafeteria, supporting students at recess, providing instructional support to staff, or helping students when they are struggling the most. Success means that I have made a difference in people’s lives," he said. For every student who enters his office, Cromwell wants that message to be clear.

"You matter, and I am always in your corner," he said. For Cromwell, joining Deer Park feels like more than simply taking a new job. "Deer Park is special because it represents everything I love about eastern Washington – a tight-knit, welcoming community that takes pride in its small-town values and genuinely cares about its schools," he said. "Joining Deer Park School District feels like coming home, and I am so honored to bring my experience and passion here to serve our youngest learners and their families."