Three Minutes with Lori Monaco-Mills

Published 2:06 pm Tuesday, September 3, 2019

Principal at Sandstone Middle School

When and why did you move to Hermiston?

I moved to Hermiston in 2016, however, I began working for the Hermiston School District in 2015 as the assistant principal at Armand Larive Middle School. I moved to Hermiston eager to seek new challenges in my profession.

What is your favorite place to eat in Hermiston?

My favorite restaurants currently are Ixtapa and Lawan’s Thai Garden.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love to travel. I love listening to live music.

What surprises you about Hermiston?

When I moved to Hermiston I was surprised by how supportive the community is of the school district. I was also pleasantly surprised by how nice the people are that fill this community. My boys and I felt welcome and at home immediately.

What was the last book you read?

The last book I read was “School Culture Rewired” by Steve Gruenert and Todd Whitaker.

What website or app do you use most other than Facebook?

The Starbucks app; it helps my mornings run smoothly when getting my favorite drink, hot chocolate.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

I would love to go to Brazil, Italy, Greece and Monaco.

What is the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you?

I don’t know what the funniest thing to ever have happened to me, but I love to be around people who make me laugh. Laughter truly is the best medicine.

What is one of your goals for the next 12 months?

My goal this year is to continue building a strong and healthy culture at Sandstone and support increased math scores.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

My proudest accomplishment in life without a doubt is having had two healthy and loving sons, Tabor and Trayson.