Dawn Fornear

Dawn's passion for education is as diverse as her background. With extensive experience in both the classroom and community leadership, she is dedicated to fostering environments that are inclusive, equitable, and empowering for all students.

Dawn's experience includes teaching at an independent elementary school in Bangkok, Thailand, where she gained a broader understanding of global education systems and the importance of cultural humility. Her five years with the Admissions Team at Seattle Academy allowed her to help build a diverse and inclusive student body, a mission she continues to champion at Explorer West.

As the Director of Admission and Community Engagement, Dawn leads the school's efforts in enrollment management, fostering connections between the school and its broader community. A key part of her role includes overseeing diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging (DEIJB) initiatives, ensuring that the school’s practices support a culturally competent and inclusive environment. She works collaboratively with students, faculty, and families to promote belonging and access while also developing programs that nurture cultural competency and restorative justice practices.

Her diverse interests and experiences, both inside and outside the classroom, enrich our community and contribute to the inclusive environment at Explorer West.

In her free time, Dawn and her son forage for mushrooms and wild foods. She also has big plans for that constantly growing pile of books next to her bed.

Bachelor of Science, Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Sciences: Diversity Focus (Central Washington University)
Master of Science, Human Relations: Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice (University of Oklahoma)