The Sumner School District Friday announced that Laurie Dent will replace Margie Bellmer as principal of Liberty Ridge Elementary School beginning May 26.

Bellmer unexpectedly announced her retirement May 19 in a letter to parents that revealed she was leaving at her doctor’s recommendation to begin treatment on a recent cancer diagnosis.

Dent has been with the district for 12 years and presently serves as co-principal at Mountain View Middle School. Prior to her current role , Dent was a classroom teacher at McAlder Elementary, Daffodil Elementary and at Mountain View. She also worked as an assistant principal at Mountain View.

Dent will take over beginning May 26.

Both Dent and Bellmer will be on hand Saturday morning for the school’s pancake breakfast, to give parents an opportunity to meet Dent and wish Bellmer well.

The breakfast is from 9 – 11 a.m. Saturday at the school, 12202 209th Ave. Ct. E. and is open to the public.

Below is a text of a letter sent home to parents announcing Dent’s appointment as principal:

Dear Liberty Ridge Families:

I would like to introduce myself and share my excitement about my appointment as the new principal at Liberty Ridge Elementary! I feel fortunate to be joining a school with a culture focused on student learning, and a commitment to high expectations, innovation and collaboration. It is my intention to carry on these important practices.

Even though I began my professional career as a special education teacher in the University Place School District, I consider the Sumner School District my home. For the past 12 years, I’ve been honored to serve the students and families of Sumner School District. I was a classroom teacher at McAlder Elementary, Daffodil Elementary and Mountain View Junior High. After earning my administrative credential I began my administrative career as the Assistant Principal for Mountain View Junior High, and for the past six years have proudly served as the Co-Principal at Mountain View Middle School.

Let me share some information about my educational background and professional experience. After graduating from Rogers High School in Puyallup, I attended Pacific Lutheran University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, and then obtained my teaching certificate with a Master’s degree in Special Education. After a few years as a classroom teacher, I returned to school for a Masters degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and then obtained my administrative credentials from the University of Washington.

When I’m not at work, you’ll find me running marathons, playing golf, or taking my two loveable dogs, Scout and Cooper, for walks along the Puyallup River. I have begun working with teachers and staff to learn more about the unique strengths, traditions and practices of Liberty Ridge. These conversations are just the start of our collaborative work.

I look forward to continuing to serve the families in Bonney Lake and especially at Liberty Ridge. With my “open door” policy, I think you will find me to be open, honest and compassionate. I look forward to getting to know the students and families at Liberty Ridge.

I will be at the Liberty Ridge Pancake Breakfast this Saturday, May 22, between 9 and 11 am. I look forward to meeting you!

Sincerely, Laurie Dent