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 fourth-year 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 over 30 years, working in both urban and suburban settings across elementary, middle, high school, and college levels. Prior to becoming a principal, I spent nine years as a middle school dean of students and an assistant principal. These diverse experiences have given me a deep understanding of the social, academic, and behavioral transitions students make from kindergarten all the way through college.
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 three 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.
Sincerely,
Ms. Catano,
Principal
Assistant Principal
Ms. Goldstein, Assistant Principal
Hello! My name is Tori Goldstein. I am overjoyed and honored to be a part of the Tanaka family as an assistant principal, serving this wonderful community alongside our principal, Ms. Catano.
With over 22 years of experience in education, I have worked within both the Clark County School District and a private school in California. My journey includes teaching Pre-K through 2nd grade and serving as an Early Childhood Project Facilitator before transitioning into school administration in 2021. Originally born and raised in West Hills, California, I graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. I then moved to Las Vegas, where I earned my Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.
On a personal note, I am happily married to my husband, Justin, and we have three wonderful children. Our oldest daughter, Ella, is in high school, our son, Liam, is in middle school, and our youngest daughter, Aria, is in 5th grade. As a family, we love to travel (especially to Maui), cook, watch movies, and cheer on our local sports teams (Go Knights Go!). Because we are a dedicated soccer and softball family, you can usually find us out at the fields nearly every night of the week!
I firmly believe that all children deserve to be valued, heard, and supported. Building positive relationships, trust, collaboration, and inclusive environments is what truly empowers students to succeed. Tanaka Elementary is deeply committed to creating a safe, positive space where all students can thrive, and I am incredibly proud to be a Dragon!
Ms. Goldstein, Assistant Principal
Assistant Principal
Dear Tanaka Elementary Families, Students, and Staff,
I am CJ McCarthy, and I am honored to introduce myself as your new Assistant Principal. Having been part of the Tanaka community for 19 years as a teacher in second, third, and fourth grades, I have a deep appreciation for our school’s culture and a strong commitment to our students' success.
In addition to my 22 years in the Clark County School District, I have coached football and flag football at several local high schools, fostering mentorship and discipline in our student-athletes. My leadership style is also shaped by my six years in the U.S. Marine Corps, including service in Afghanistan, which instilled in me the values of integrity and perseverance.
On a personal note, I am a proud husband and father of four. In my free time, I enjoy reading, coaching, jiu-jitsu, and family time.
My vision as Assistant Principal is to maintain an inclusive, supportive environment where every student and staff member is empowered to achieve their best. I look forward to collaborating with you all to build on Tanaka’s strong foundation.
Best regards,
Mr. CJ McCarthy, Assistant Principal