Principal's Message

Principal’s Message

Kastner Students and Families,

Welcome to Kastner Intermediate, home of the Thunderbirds! I am honored to be the principal of Kastner Intermediate School. Kastner is an unbelievable place to learn and grow, especially in the quick two years we call junior high school. It is here that you will make new friendships with students from around the Clovis West Area and beyond, find your niche of interest, and mature into a young adult with the support and guidance of teachers and staff along the way.

A little about me, I had the pleasure of attending Cole Elementary School, Fort Washington Elementary School, Kastner Intermediate and Clovis West High School. Yes, I too walked the halls of Kastner many years ago! My husband and I have lived in the Fresno area most of our lives and have three amazing daughters. Two of my daughters previously attended Kastner. Being a parent in the area brings a unique lens into Kastner and one that is a support to our students and families. Cardinal and gold is in my blood!

I started my career in education twenty-eight years ago and have enjoyed each step in my career. I started as a classroom teacher at Tarpey Elementary, teaching 3rd and 5th grades, Guidance Instructional Specialist at Valley Oak, Lincoln and Maple Creek, learning director here at Kastner, and was the principal at Valley Oak Elementary School for ten years. I have spent the majority of my career in the Clovis West Area and now enjoy serving the Kastner Thunderbirds as Principal, bringing my skills and experiences from multiple positions to lead our school. I look forward to working with you as a partner in education to ensure your child’s success.

I genuinely believe that education is an honorable profession that can have a profound impact on a child's life. As educators, we have the opportunity to not only teach academic subjects, but also instill a love of learning, and help students reach their full potential. By fostering a growth mindset and valuing the unique qualities of each individual, we can create a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

I am excited to bring my experience, passion for learning, and student-centered approach to Kastner. I believe that strong relationships between families and the school are essential for the success of our students. I encourage you to get involved in any way you can. I look forward to meeting all of you soon and working together to support each and every student on their educational journey.

Sincerely,
Julie Duwe
Principal
Kastner Intermediate School