MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has announced Jason De Lane as the new principal of Knolls Vista Elementary School, effective Tuesday for the 2025-26 school year. De Lane succeeds Adam Sawyer, who has accepted a leadership position as assistant executive director of safety and well-being within the district.  

“I am very happy to be joining the Moses Lake and Knolls Vista families,” De Lane said. “From the moment I stepped into Knolls Vista, I could feel the heart and dedication of the staff and district leaders. I’m honored to serve as principal and look forward to partnering with families, students and staff to make this a great year for every child.” 

De Lane is a veteran educator with over 13 years of teaching and administrative experience across different grade levels and student populations. Most recently, he held dual roles as a mathematics teacher and principal designee at Paideia High School in Valley, Washington. His experience extends beyond Washington; De Lane has also taught mathematics, social studies and special education in Tennessee and Texas. 

Superintendent Carol Lewis emphasized the qualities that make De Lane a great fit for Knolls Vista.  

“Jason De Lane embodies the values of relationships, trust and high expectations,” Lewis said. “He brings a strong commitment to student success and a collaborative leadership style that will resonate with staff, families, and the entire Knolls Vista community.” 

He earned a principal certificate from Eastern Washington University, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston and a Bachelor of Arts from St. Edward’s University. Additionally, his experience in supporting multilingual learners through culturally responsive instruction highlights his dedication to inclusivity and diversity in the classroom. 

"I still have family members that don't speak English, and there's a very special place in my heart for the Hispanic community," De Lane said.  

Knolls Vista Elementary serves approximately 300 students and is recognized for its strong community partnerships and family involvement. With a focus on academic growth and the creation of a positive learning environment, De Lane will officially start his duties later this summer, with opportunities for families to connect with him before the school year commences. 

"I've ticked off a lot of boxes on my bucket list for teaching ... It's time for the next challenge. I believe deeply in service and community,” he said. 

He expressed excitement about working with the younger student population at Knolls Vista, acknowledging that while his previous experience mostly involved middle and high school students, he is eager to bridge the gap between elementary and upper-grade curricula.  

“One of the things that I bring to the table is helping align elementary with the middle and high school when it comes to curriculum and hopefully helping them become more and better prepared for what comes after elementary," he said. 

Ryan Shannon, the director of public relations for MLSD, echoed the positive sentiments about De Lane's appointment.  

"He’s going to be a good fit at that school," Shannon said. "He’s going to do absolutely great. High energy, I think he’s going to connect well with the Knolls Vista community, and he’s excited to get started building those relationships." 

As for De Lane's plans for the upcoming school year, he highlighted the importance of continuity in leadership.  

“They’re not looking for somebody to come in and make huge, sweeping changes,” he said. “I want to help pick up where Adam Sawyer left off, building momentum and a sense of camaraderie and teamwork within the school.” 

As De Lane begins his journey at Knolls Vista, he carries with him a strong desire to connect with the community.