Tanaka Elementary Administration
Principal
Ms. Catano, Principal
Dear Tanaka Students, Families, and Community,
It is with great excitement that I write this letter of introduction to you as the new Principal of Tanaka Elementary School. I am honored to have the opportunity to lead a school with such persevering students, dedicated staff, and a supportive community.
I have been dedicated to the field of education for 25 years. My experience as an educator is in urban and suburban settings ranging from the elementary, middle, high school, and college levels. My experiences have helped me see the social, academic, and behavioral transitions
from Kindergarten to college years. For the past seven years, I have served as a Middle School Dean of Discipline and an Elementary Assistant Principal under the leadership of outstanding principals. I look forward to working with the Tanaka staff as we focus our efforts on creating classrooms that are vibrant centers of learning.
On a personal note, I moved to Las Vegas from Ohio in 2001. I have three amazing children, all graduates of the Clark County School District. My oldest son is an engineer, my middle son is in business and my daughter is an ICU nurse. I also have two French bulldogs that make us laugh
every day. When I am not at work I love spending my time with my family cooking, going to dinner, and playing games. We also love the beach and going for long walks with our dogs.
In my role as the Principal, I will continue to focus on creating classrooms where caring teachers are engaging their students in rigorous, culturally responsive experiences so that all children excel. My vision is that every single one of our students thrives and that our school is one that
all students feel is a joyful place that creates excellence for all.
I am thrilled about this school year and look forward to working with all of you to ensure that the students of Tanaka Elementary have a school year filled with quality instruction and fun.
Ms. Catano, Principal
Assistant Principal
Ms. Tarrant, Assistant Principal
My name is Andrea Tarrant and I am the proud assistant principal of Wayne Tanaka Elementary School. I am excited to be part of the Tanaka community and work alongside Mr. Davis to ensure that all children have access to high quality, equitable instruction. I look forward to meeting all students and families this coming school year and building a structure of collaborative relationships.
I come to you with over 20 years of teaching experience. I have taught 4th grade, 1st grade, and most recently was a literacy specialist. I have a master’s degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in Educational Policy and Leadership.
On a more personal note, my husband, Brian and I enjoy spending time with our three children. We enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, and participating in their many extracurricular activities. I am from Buffalo, NY and am a huge Buffalo Bills fan!
I cannot express how excited and honored I am to join the Tanaka community. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at grayal@nv.ccsd.net or (702)799-2504
Ms. Tarrant, Assistant Principal
Assistant Principal
Ms. Goldstein, Assistant Principal
Hello, my name is Tori Goldstein. I’m overjoyed and honored to be a part of the Tanaka family as an assistant principal and serve this wonderful community alongside Ms. Catano and Ms. Tarrant.
I have been an educator for 21 years, and I have worked in both the Clark County School District and a private school in California. I have taught Pre-K through 2nd grade and served as an Early Childhood Project Facilitator before being promoted to assistant principal in 2021. I was born and raised in West Hills, California, and I graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. After graduation, I moved to Las Vegas and earned my Master's degree in Educational Leadership. I am happily married to my husband, Justin, and we have three children. Our oldest daughter, Ella, is excited to begin a new chapter in High School as she enters 9th grade this year. Our son, Liam, is in 4th grade, and our youngest daughter, Aria, is in 3rd grade. As a family, we love to travel (especially to Maui), watch family movies, cook, and watch football and hockey (Go Knights Go!). But since we are a soccer family and all three of our kids play competitively, you will probably find me at the field 6 out of 7 nights a week.
I believe that all children deserve to be valued, heard, and supported. I feel that building positive relationships, trust, collaboration, and supportive inclusive learning environments empowers and leads to student success. Tanaka is committed to creating a safe and positive learning environment where all students can thrive, this is why I am proud to be a Dragon!
Ms. Goldstein, Assistant Principal