Gilbert Public Schools Welcomes 5 New Principals Across the District

GILBERT, Ariz. (July 13, 2025) - The Gilbert Public Schools family is excited to announce the appointment of five principals who will lead various campuses in the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. These dedicated educators bring a wealth of experience and a passion for continued student success and growth.

Mike Davis, Principal at Islands Elementary School

With a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, Mike Davis has had a lifelong passion for education. Davis began his professional career at Gilbert Public Schools in 2001 as a math teacher at Highland Junior High. In his 25 years of experience at GPS, Mike has served in many different roles, including Dean of Students at Highland Junior High, Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at South Valley Junior High, and Principal at Pioneer Elementary and Desert Ridge Junior High.

“I am honored to join such an amazing school,” says Davis. “I am excited to become an important member of the wonderful Islands Elementary community, and I want to be an impactful resource for the students and staff.”

Jenn Laserna, Interim Principal at Harris Elementary

Jenn Laserna has served as the Dean of Students at Harris Elementary and Oak Tree Elementary for the past two years. Stepping in as Interim Principal at Harris, Laserna will utilize her over 20 years of experience in education to continue working with the Harris community. 

"It is my commitment to ensure every student at Harris Elementary is at the heart of everything I do," Laserna states. "I am dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where every student feels valued, heard, and empowered to succeed." She plans to cultivate a positive school culture that celebrates learning journeys, fosters growth, and strengthens community, with initiatives such as "Dream Walls" and a "You Matter" program to recognize strengths.

Eric Cruz, Principal at Desert Ridge Junior High

Eric Cruz brings over 30 years of educational experience in both the junior high and high school levels to Desert Ridge Junior High (DRJH). Cruz began his career teaching junior high science in central Phoenix before moving to high school science in the East Valley. He then transitioned into administration at other districts in the East Valley before joining Gilbert Public Schools at Mesquite High School in 2023.

Cruz is extremely excited to be the Principal at DRJH, saying that leading a campus where he is also a parent and community member is strongly appealing. Cruz is committed to providing a warm, welcoming environment with a strong focus on student learning and growth. He is particularly enthusiastic about DRJH’s new School of Innovation & Design, and plans to integrate AVID programming to ensure classrooms are engaging and prepare students for high school.

Adam Strock, Principal at Canyon Valley School

Adam Strock has worked in education since 2006, starting as a teacher in various music disciplines, including band, choir, general music, and musical theater. After teaching, Strock moved to administrative roles, including Dean of Students, summer school administrator, and head of school. Most recently, he served as Dean of Students at Gilbert High School, where he led the Gilbert Accelerated Middle School and International Baccalaureate Programme.

Strock holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Arizona State University, a Master of Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, and a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University. He is "beyond excited" to join the Canyon Valley community. At Canyon Valley, he is committed to building strong, trusting relationships for meaningful learning, inspiring personal, academic, and social growth through a supportive, inclusive, and restorative environment.

Kristin Fleming, Principal at Augusta Ranch Elementary

As the new Principal at Augusta Ranch Elementary, Kristin Fleming brings 30 years of dedicated experience in education. Fleming's extensive background includes teaching 3rd through 5th grade, serving as a child development center director, and parent coach. Within GPS, she has taught at Highland Park Elementary, was an instructional coach at Carol Rae Ranch Elementary, and served as Dean of Students at Meridian Elementary and Canyon Rim Elementary.

For Kristin Fleming, leading an elementary school is a calling for her to inspire young minds and build a community where every child thrives. She is committed to continuing Augusta Ranch’s proud traditions while seeking new growth opportunities, ensuring every student feels safe, valued, challenged, and prepared for the future. She eagerly anticipates partnering with families and the community for student success.

Gilbert Public Schools is pleased to welcome these Principals for the upcoming school year. To learn more about these Principals and to stay up to date with back-to-school information, visit GilbertSchools.net.