Kalispell Public Schools names new Russell Elementary principal

Kalispell Middle School Assistant Principal Marti Paugh has been selected as the new principal of Russell Elementary School. 

Paugh replaces Principal Bill Sullivan, who is retiring after 19 years leading Russell Elementary. Paugh’s first day in the new position will be July 1.  

Paugh has served as an assistant principal at the middle school for two years. Prior to that, she was an assistant principal and instructional coach at Edgerton Elementary School, where she worked with staff to strengthen instructional practices. 

Paugh holds a Master of Educational Leadership from Rocky Mountain College and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Montana.  

The district received 19 applications and interviewed five candidates for the position. 

“It is an incredible honor to be chosen as the next principal of Russell Elementary. I believe schools should be places where every child feels safe, valued, challenged and inspired to grow,” Paugh said in a statement. 

“My passion for education is rooted in building strong relationships, fostering a culture of kindness and belonging, and ensuring all students have opportunities to learn, lead and succeed. I am beyond excited to work alongside students, staff, and families to celebrate the great traditions at Russell while continuing to support joyful, student-centered learning for every child,” she added. 

Paugh has led schoolwide initiatives focused on personalized, competency-based learning and created a middle school dropout prevention program.  

“Throughout her career within Kalispell Public Schools, Marti has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to students, staff and continuous growth,” Kalispell Superintendent Matt Jensen said. 

“At Kalispell Middle School, Marti continued to lead with a student-centered and collaborative approach.  She helped establish the Student Solutions Group, empowering students to take greater ownership of their school culture and community, while also facilitating professional learning opportunities that deepened staff understanding of standards and effective instructional practices. Marti’s leadership, professionalism, and dedication have already made a lasting impact across multiple levels of our district.” 

Reporter Hilary Matheson can be reached at 406-758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com. If you value local journalism, pledge your support at dailyinterlake.com/support.