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Washington Evening Journal
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Fairfield High School announces new associate principal
FAIRFIELD — Fairfield High School has announced that it will have a new associate principal next school year.
The district has hired Andrew Carbajal for the position. Carbajal will work alongside FHS Principal Aiddy Phomvisay. Carbajal will be replacing outgoing associate principal Mallory Mahon, who announced her resignation in order to be closer to her children and family in Van Buren County.
The Fairfield Community School District stated in a news release that Carbajal was selected from a competitive group of candidates chosen by a committee of administrators, teachers, support staff, students and parents. The district stated that Carbajal stood out from the pool of applicants for his leadership abilities and educational experiences.
Carbajal served as a combat medic for 15 months in Iraq before he was medically retired for injuries he sustained in a war zone. He was inspired to be a teacher and pursue higher education upon his recovery.
Since recovering from his injuries, he has gained experience in Special Education, as an Assistant At-Risk Coordinator, Assistant Athletic Director, and teaching science at the high school level.
Carbajal holds two Master’s degrees in Science in Athletics and Administration from Western Kentucky University and a Master’s in Special Education from Morningside College. He’s pursuing his Ph.D. in school leadership from the University of Northern Iowa.
The district found that Carbajal’s colleagues and committee members consistently reported on his commitment to all students, especially those with educational challenges or alternative experiences, just as he experienced. Committee members commented that “his life experiences, servant leadership mentality, and work ethic are energizing and that he would be a great fit for FHS.”
FHS Principal Aiddy Phomvisay said the committee made a great choice.
“I’m thrilled to have Andrew serve our students and staff at FHS,” Phomvisay said. “His passion for helping all kids and extensive experience with student services will be an immediate asset to our school and community.”
In his interview with the committee, Carbajal stressed his family's importance and commitment to Fairfield. Along with his wife Breanna and their seven children ranging from the ages 14 years to 18 months old, Carbajal said he is looking forward to relocating to Fairfield, where they will live and serve the community together.
