The Dunne Dispatch (Principal Edition) - 05/29/2024

Mr. Cary Dimmick, currently the Principal at Gaithersburg HS, Montgomery County Public Schools, has been appointed as Principal of Mount Vernon HS effective Monday, July 1, 2024. 

With 30 years in Montgomery County Public Schools, Mr. Dimmick brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. As a veteran administrator who served as principal of Sligo MS and Gaithersburg HS, Mr. Dimmick has demonstrated the ability to drive positive change and foster a culture of growth and collaboration.

Mr. Dimmick has a track record of improving academic performance, reducing dropout rates, and increasing overall attendance. His experience with International Baccalaureate programs aligns with Mount Vernon HS's commitment to offering IB for All, starting next year. He is familiar with IB standards and has a history of implementing rigorous academic programs, expanding course offerings, and enriching educational experiences. Furthermore, Mr. Dimmick is passionate about athletics and extracurricular activities and is committed to recognizing and supporting all student endeavors, ensuring all students feel valued and supported in personal and academic growth.

Mr. Dimmick is committed to distributed leadership and building capacity within the school team. He empowers administrators and teacher leaders in instructional leadership, leading initiatives to improve student outcomes and create a culture of excellence.  Equally important is Mr. Dimmick's dedication to student safety, equity, and inclusivity.  He approaches behavioral issues proactively and is committed to fostering positive relationships within the school community.

Mr. Dimmick holds a Master of Science in Health Sciences/School Health from Towson University and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland, College Park. He holds a Maryland State Administration and Supervision Certification as well as Admin. I and II Certification (K-12 / Principal Licensure) from the Administrative Certification Internship Program at the University of Maryland, College Park as well as a Maryland State Advanced Professional Certification in Health Education and Physical Education (K-12).

Mr. Dimmick is looking forward to partnering with students, families, and staff to foster a warm, safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment. Please join me in welcoming Mr. Dimmick as the new principal at Mount Vernon HS!  

Ms. Katie Pluntke has been appointed as principal of Belle View ES, effective July 1, 2024. She brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and a deep understanding of Belle View’s culture and community.

Ms. Pluntke has over 19 years of experience in education, during which she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to student success. Her tenure as an assistant principal in Region 3, including her previous service at Belle View ES, Fort Hunt ES, and Carl Sandburg Middle School, has equipped her with invaluable insights into educational administration and instructional leadership.

During her time as an assistant principal at Belle View ES, Ms. Pluntke spearheaded initiatives that significantly impacted the community. She played a pivotal role in the implementation of the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) process, collaborated in the development of Professional Learning Communities, and contributed to the enhancement of the school's climate and culture. Her efforts resulted in tangible improvements in academic performance and a reduction in chronic absenteeism, reflecting her dedication to student well-being and academic excellence.

Furthermore, Ms. Pluntke's commitment to fostering a positive school environment is evident in her track record of implementing school-wide behavior programs, establishing collaborative learning opportunities for staff, and prioritizing effective communication practices. She emphasizes mutual respect, transparent communication, and celebrating diversity.

Ms. Pluntke holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision (K-12) from the University of Mary Washington and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education (K-6) from Lesley College, Cambridge, MA. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH.  She holds a Postgraduate Professional License for Pre-K-6 education and a Postgraduate Professional License in Educational Leadership and Supervision for Pre-K-12 settings.

Please join me in welcoming Ms. Pluntke back to Belle View ES as the new principal!  She eagerly anticipates reconnecting with staff, students, and families, and looks forward to actively engaging them in the life of the school.