
Hi Bulldog Community!
My name is Kristen Wood and I am your La Quinta Middle STEM Academy principal. I am honored to have the opportunity to lead a school which is known for its dedication to excellence, but more importantly, for its dedication to supporting middle school students! Over the past 27 years in education, I have worked with a variety of middle school and high school students. My last administrative experience was in DSUSD’s Educational Services Division as our Local Control and Accountability Coordinator. I am eager to bring my skills as an educational leader to La Quinta Middle and work with you as a partner in education as I learn all of our Bulldogs personalities, learning styles, and interests.
I will work hard to continue the legacy of success established by La Quinta Middle by building strong relationships with students, staff, parents, and community partners. We will focus on the use of data to drive instruction and provide consistent implementation of a rigorous curriculum.
As your principal, it is important to me that everyone who enters our school feels welcome and is excited to be here! This attitude enables us to meet the challenges of academic excellence in a positive and, most importantly, nurturing environment. My door is always open and I welcome your input.
Please feel free to call or email me, and follow me on social media! I look forward to working with you as a team to help all students meet their goals and aspirations.
With much Bulldog PRIDE!
Kristen Wood
E-Mail: [email protected]
Kristen Wood gotbulldogpride @GotBulldogPride

Hello Bulldog family!
My name is Elizabeth Van Dorn, and I am thrilled to join La Quinta Middle STEM Academy as the new Assistant Principal.
I'm a proud parent of two children, Sevina and James, and a passionate educator with 17 years of experience at La Quinta High School. During my time there, I served as a mathematics teacher, Mathematics Department Chair, and International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Coordinator. I earned a BA in Mathematics from the College of St. Benedict and hold a Master's degree in Educational Leadership.
I'm honored to be a part of this community and am eager to help every student thrive. My goal is to work together to create a supportive and inspiring learning environment where all students feel valued and motivated. Please know that my door is always open. I can't wait to get started on an incredible year with you all!