New principal named for Wahluke’s Saddle Mountain Elementary

MATTAWA — Melissa Hattaway has been named the principal at Saddle Mountain Elementary beginning with the 2025-25 school year. 

“She’s replacing Kurt Hoffman who’s retiring after 40 years in education,” Wahluke School District Superintendent Andy Harlow said. “Melissa is a Royal High School graduate and has worked for (the Wahluke School District) for 15 years. This will be her first role as principal.” 

Hattaway was hired after an extensive interview process by the SME staff, Harlow said in a press release announcing the hire. 

“I am honored and excited to take on this new role,” Hattaway said. “I look forward to the opportunities ahead and am eager to continue fostering a culture of growth and achievement.” 

Hattaway said she wants to work with students, their families and SME staff to ensure a supportive educational environment. Among other goals, she wants to continue initiatives started by current principal Kurt Hoffman. Hoffman is retiring after seven years as SME principal and 40 years in education. 

“We’re extremely excited to for Melissa and the SME staff to make this hire,” Harlow said. “Obviously, replacing a legend like Mr. Hoffman is always going to be challenging to say the least. By making this hire before spring break, it gives the SME team extra time to work with Kurt and the entire staff to make a smoother transition.” 

Hattaway has been employed at WSD since 2014, working as a teacher, instructional coach, in the district’s technology department, coach, mentor and administrative intern. 

Hattaway is a 2007 graduate of Royal High School and graduated in 2012 from Central Washington University with a degree in elementary education. She earned a master's in instruction and technology in 2019 and principal certification in 2024. She received national board certification in mathematics in 2017.