Meet Dr. Trancita “Tina” Winquist – Rosemary Clarke Middle School Assistant Principal

Dr. Trancita “Tina” Winquist, the new Assistant Principal at Rosemary Clarke Middle School (RCMS), brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational equity. Hired in February 2024, Dr. Winquist’s background includes serving as the Title I director and supervisor for the Office of Student and School Supports at the Nevada Department of Education. “In that role, I collaborated with district and school leaders across Nevada, leading strategic planning initiatives and administering funds for federal and state programs,” she shares. Her career has been dedicated to advancing evidence-based interventions, rigorous evaluations of programs and services, and strategies for continuous improvement.

Dr. Winquist’s journey in education is diverse, having worked as a special education teacher, curriculum leader, and administrator at various levels. She has also served as a district assessment coordinator, state program evaluator, and university adjunct professor both in the United States and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands. “Being a first-generation high school graduate influenced my commitment to ensuring all students have access to high-quality schools and the life opportunities they afford,” she explains. Dr. Winquist holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Southern California, a master’s in special education from Chaminade University of Honolulu, and a bachelor’s in English from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Her primary goals for RCMS are focused on data-driven practices aligned with district goals, high-quality standards-based instruction, and creating a safe learning environment. “We are committed to cultivating an environment where we actively participate in our educational experience and are held accountable for academic success,” says Dr. Winquist. The school’s mission statement emphasizes attendance, attitude, and academics, encapsulated in the mantra, “At RCMS, I CARE—Intentionality to Community, Achievement, Respect, Encouragement.”

A typical day for Dr. Winquist is filled with varied responsibilities that keep her constantly engaged. She starts her mornings by reviewing schedules and emails, ensuring the building is ready for students and staff. “I monitor student arrival, interact with students, teachers, and parents, and oversee morning announcements,” she notes. Classroom visits are a key part of her day, where she observes teaching and learning, providing feedback to teachers. Meetings with staff, parents, and students cover everything from student progress to disciplinary issues and special education needs.

Midday sees Dr. Winquist supervising lunch periods, which she views as an opportunity to build rapport with students in a less formal setting. “Interacting with students during lunch is one of the highlights of my day,” she remarks. Afternoons are dedicated to addressing disciplinary actions, organizing professional development sessions, and implementing student support plans. The day wraps up with monitoring student dismissal, reflecting on the day’s events, and planning for the next.

Engaging with students, parents, and the broader community is a cornerstone of Dr. Winquist’s educational philosophy. Transitioning into the role of assistant principal after serving as RCMS’s Autism teacher has given her a deep understanding of the school’s culture and the needs of its students. “Building relationships with families and community partners is essential. I listen to the needs of guardians and students, emphasizing the importance of being valued partners,” she highlights.

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Winquist enjoys stargazing under the serene night skies and the tranquility of the desert in Pahrump. She is an avid reader, with Richard Phillips being her favorite author, and she treasures spending time with her husband, sons, and extended family, who have also relocated from Hawaii to Nevada. “Balancing work and family is crucial for maintaining my passion and effectiveness in education,” she says.

Dr. Winquist’s approach to leadership is deeply influenced by the Aloha Spirit, a guiding principle in her life that embodies warmth, friendliness, and a genuine interest in helping others. “The emphasis on family-centric values is a cornerstone of my approach,” she explains. In Hawaiian culture, the concept of ʻohana, or family, is fundamental, and this extends to a broader sense of community involvement. “I aim to bring this sense of collaboration and inclusiveness to my role at RCMS, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for students and staff alike,” she adds.

Her vision for RCMS is to ensure that every student thrives in a safe, supportive, and academically rigorous environment. “We are always striving to improve and create opportunities for our students to succeed,” she concludes. Dr. Winquist’s dedication to educational equity and her commitment to fostering a collaborative, community-oriented school culture promise a bright future for Rosemary Clarke Middle School.