(KNZA)--A new Horton Elementary School Principal has been hired.

South Brown County USD 430 announced in a release that Dawn Chase will join the school district after teaching the last 16 years in Topeka Public Schools .

The USD 430 Board of Education approved her hiring at their meeting Wednesday evening.

She began teaching in 2008 at Stout Elementary and was there until 2021 when the building closed. After the school closed, Chase became the behavioral instructional coach and Dean of Students at Ross Elementary.

The release says she has also worked in various leadership positions during her teaching career, such as Building Leadership Team, Math Department Chair, and Co-Chair for the building's response intervention team.

Chase earned her Bachelor of Education from Washburn in 2007 and a Masters in Educational Administration from Fort Hays State University in 2014.

“What keeps me going as an educator is the relationships I build with my students and colleagues. Teaching today includes much more than just core content. I am committed to ensuring that every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to achieve their highest potential. I'm looking forward to making connections with the South Brown County community” stated Chase

While not in the classroom Chase enjoys spending time with her husband, Daniel, and their two children, Kaitlinn and Josh. When not at school you can find her out boating, fishing, or playing with her two dogs, Pepper and Prancer. Chase also enjoys diamond painting, listening to music and reading.

Chase will replace Rainey Auen, who is resigning effective June 30th, after serving as Horton Elementary School Principal since August of last year.