My name is Rick Garner. I am the proud principal at Blackshear Elementary Fine Arts Academy.
I have been an educator since 1996. I have been fortunate to have the following experience:
- 2nd Grade Bilingual Teacher
- 3rd Grade ESL Teacher
- Teacher Specialist - Spanish (at a Magnet School implenting the International Baccalaureate's Primary Years Programme)
- Elementary School Assistant Principal
- Middle School Math Teacher
- Middle School Assistant Principal
- Central Office Administrator
I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Whitworth University in Spokane, WA. I majored in Spanish, with an area of emphasis in Cross Cultural Studies. As an undergraduate, I studied in Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. My Master’s degree in Educational Administration was earned at California State University, San Bernardino.
In high school and college, I was an avid soccer player and trumpet player. I also enjoyed long distance running. The most memorable races that I participated in were the Dipsea Race, Bloomsday, and the Coeur d’Alene Marathon.
In my home we speak Spanish and English. My wonderful wife is from Chihuahua, Mexico. My son is a graduate of Baylor University and my daughter is currently a student at Baylor Univeristy.
