Marie (LaLa) Thomas (she/them)

"Marie “LaLa” Thomas is elated to be the next assistant principal at Gateway Middle School! She enjoys working with young people and has had the joy of being a middle and high school English teacher, Interventionist, Dean of Culture, and Relay certified Instructional Coach. She received her bachelor's degree in Human Services and Management while serving in the Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom and has over fourteen years of experience working in public education. Out of all the things she loves the most, it would be her beautiful daughter, ""Z"", who brings her joy each day and keeps who keeps her grounded.

LaLa grew up in North Las Vegas but also counts places like NYC, the Bay Area, and parts of the south as her home. Holding a diploma in her hand  was always a desire from a young age and she believes this to be true for all scholars, no matter where they come from. In addition, to her many roles, she is  currently an English professor with the College of Southern Nevada, where she teaches English composition. LaLa also holds a Masters in Education with an emphasis in Secondary Studies, a Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and is studying her doctorate in education administration. She is a debut author who has published a novel with Simon and Schuster and MTV Books and hopes to write many more  inspirational works for young people who are misrepresented in America . As an assistant principal, her goal is to bring more joy, uplift culture, and promote greatness to the GMS school community and public education, globally.