Dear Families and Caretakers of Discovery Primary School,
I am absolutely delighted to introduce myself as the principal of Discovery Primary School. My name is Alisha Maulding. It is an honor to have the opportunity to lead and serve the staff, students, and families of this wonderful school community.
On a personal note, I grew up in the nearby town of Buckley, where I was surrounded by the same tight-knit community spirit that I see reflected here in Fife. My husband Kai is a proud Fife graduate himself. We are blessed with three incredible children. Our son Brock will attend the University of Washington in the fall to pursue his dream of playing collegiate golf. We have two daughters, Braelyn (9th grade) and Blakely (6th grade), and recently added the cutest pup to our family, Birkley! We love traveling, boating, and sports. I cherish any time our schedules allow us to spend together.
My career in education began in the Sumner School District in 2001. Over two decades I have gained experience as an intermediate teacher, K-3 Specialist, LAP and Title Coordinator, Dean of Students, and Assistant Principal. I am a teacher at heart, passionate about literacy, and a lifelong learner. During the 2023-2024 school year, I had the privilege of joining the talented team at Hedden Elementary. After a short time, I knew I’d found my new home within Fife Public Schools. Working alongside District leaders and staff who are dedicated to success for all aligns with my professional purpose. I am genuinely excited about the direction our school district is moving and am wholeheartedly committed to the work ahead. This year, I am fortunate to be partnering with Mrs. Waters, our assistant principal. Her knowledge, experience, and relational focus are a gift to staff and students.
As the principal of Discovery Primary School I feel a profound responsibility to create a shared vision and positive culture that binds us together, puts student needs first, and inspires both growth and success. I firmly believe that safety, effective communication, meaningful collaboration, systems that ensure  equitable access to learning and resources, and unwavering support are the cornerstones of a thriving school community in which social-emotional development and academic achievement are top priorities. As a staff, we are committed to becoming a Professional Learning Community in which all students achieve at high levels.
Currently, we have approximately 450 amazing students. Together, we're establishing routines, practicing AIM expectations, and building relationships within our learning community. All of these things will set the foundation for a positive, successful school year. This far, I have observed instructional excellence and student engagement in action. The hallways are already lined with work samples and art showcasing student voice. A positive, inclusive environment and student belonging are evident in the smiles on students’ faces. Discovery is the BEST!
As we embark on this journey, your partnership is invaluable. Together, we will honor and uphold the cherished traditions that make Discovery special while striving to progress toward new, shared goals. I look forward to building strong connections within our Discovery family. Don’t hesitate to reach out as questions arise. Ensuring a positive, successful year ahead is our top priority. Go rockets!

With warm regards,
Alisha Maulding
[email protected]
 Discovery Primary School, Principal