A Legacy of Leadership: Jamie Haines Passes the Torch to Alissa Guevara at Gowan Science Academy
For over two decades, Jamie Haines and Alissa Guevara have walked side by side in their educational journeys, growing from dedicated teachers into transformative leaders. Their paths first crossed in 2003, when both were young educators in Crane Schools, driven by the same passion—to inspire and empower students.
Now, as Haines steps into her new role as Curriculum Director for Crane Schools, she leaves behind a legacy of excellence at Gowan Science Academy, the school she helped build and lead to success. Taking her place is none other than Alissa Guevara, the current Assistant Principal of Gowan, a trusted colleague, and a leader who has shared Haines' vision for student-centered learning.
A Lifelong Commitment to Crane Schools
For Jamie Haines, Crane Schools have always been home. She attended the district as a student before returning as an educator in 2003. She spent six years teaching at Ronald Reagan Elementary before moving to Crane Middle School, then served as a Professional Development Coach at H.L. Suverkrup Elementary. In 2013, she took on the challenge of opening Gowan Science Academy, guiding it to become the top-performing school in Yuma County. Her leadership, innovative thinking, and unwavering commitment to students shaped Gowan into a model of excellence.
Now, as she transitions to the district level, she does so with confidence, knowing the school is in exceptional hands. “Leaving Gowan is bittersweet, but there is no one better suited for this role than Alissa,” said Haines. “She is amazing, and I know she will be incredible leading Gowan into the future.”
A Leader Poised to Carry the Torch
Alissa Guevara’s journey in Crane Schools is equally inspiring. She has been an educator in the district since 2001, teaching 2nd, 3rd, and 5th grade at Ronald Reagan and Gowan Science Academy before becoming a Professional Development Coach at Gowan Science Academy in 2016. Her role as Assistant Principal since 2022 has been instrumental in fostering collaborative school culture, data-driven instruction, and inclusive learning environments.
With a deep understanding of Gowan’s mission and culture, Guevara is ready to step into the principalship with passion and dedication. "Jamie has been a mentor, a colleague, and a friend," said Guevara. "It is an incredible honor to continue the work we’ve built together and to carry forward the vision we both believe in so deeply."
A Legacy of Collaboration and Growth
The transition is more than just a leadership change—it's a testament to the power of mentorship, collaboration, and shared purpose. Haines and Guevara have supported and challenged each other for over 20 years, growing into leaders who have shaped the Crane Schools community.
As Jamie Haines embarks on her new journey as Curriculum Director, she does so knowing that her life's work at Gowan Science Academy is in the hands of a leader she trusts wholeheartedly. And as Alissa Guevara steps into her new role, she does so with the guidance and wisdom of a remarkable mentor behind her.
With strong leadership in place, the future of Gowan Science Academy—and Crane Schools—has never been brighter.