My name is Kim Bilanko and I am so proud to be the principal at the our new school, Ella Baker Elementary. Opening a new school is the dream of a lifetime, and I am looking forward to creating this school together!

For those who have not met me, let me introduce myself. I was raised in Bellevue, WA and attended Western Washington University. I received my B.A. in Special Education with an Elementary Education endorsement. I completed my student teaching at Franklin Elementary (Lake Washington) and Woodridge Elementary School (Bellevue) in 2000. Since then, I have taught multiple grade levels including Special Education. I have also taught in multiple states including Washington, Texas and California. I also spent time as a Literacy Coach and mentored teachers in the classroom. I then received my M.A. in Education (Administration and Supervision) at California State University, Fresno. With my administrative credential, I then worked as a Vice Principal at both the elementary and secondary level. Most recently, I served as the principal for seven years at Ben Franklin Elementary and three years at Rosa Parks Elementary.

On a personal note, I love spending time with my husband, and children. I enjoy hiking, playing soccer, snowboarding, wake-boarding, camping and going on adventures with my family. I am also a huge Seahawk, Mariner and Husky fan! My passion is education and I truly love being a principal.

This past year, our team has developed a strong sense of purpose for Ella Baker Elementary School.  Our goal is to empower our students as changemakers. We want students to know their potential, learn how to collaborate with others, and know that they can impact our world. In order for students to be future ready, we believe in developing children both academically and socially. Our students will learn and practice the Baker Eight Traits; empathy, gratitude, grit, optimism, integrity, self-control, curiosity and embracing diversity. These skills will be taught and developed through regular experiences including integrated service-learning projects. The integrated units of study will give students the opportunity to explore content areas in a hands-on and meaningful way, ask critical questions, learn from experts in the field, and understand how they can make an impact on our school, community and world. Our staff is dedicated to developing strong relationships with students and among students.  We will ensure Ella Baker is an inclusive, equitable and engaging learning environment for all students.

Welcome to Ella Baker Elementary.

Kim Bilanko