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Meet Trina Hall: the new Executive Director of Special Education

Trina Hall has spent many years working in the Bellingham and the Mount Baker school districts. But she always had an eye on returning to Ferndale. 

So when Hall received the opportunity to apply for Ferndale School District’s open Executive Director of Teaching & Learning, Special Education position, she jumped at the chance. 

“I wouldn’t have left Bellingham to go anywhere else – it was definitely about coming back to my hometown,” said Hall. “The pride I have for this community is crazy, and now I get to be here and feel that pride.” 

Hall held a variety of positions during her 29 years in Bellingham and Mount Baker, including as the Executive Director of Teaching and Learning in the former district. She said that as Ferndale’s special education leader, she hopes to foster a level playing field for students with differing abilities. 

“We want every student to be known, to be valued for who they are, and to be supported and cared for,” Hall said. “The goal is for students to be authentically included in their school and feel a true sense of belonging.” 

Hall just joined Ferndale School District this summer and has been hard at work learning about her new position and new school district. She said she looks forward to supporting the work of families, staff and students to identify strengths and needs, set goals, and help students obtain those goals. 

“I’ve been reading and learning this summer as much as I can, meeting with special education teachers and staff,” she said. “It’s been fantastic learning so much about the context of each person’s work and getting to know staff and families.” 

Hall attended three different elementary schools during her Ferndale childhood – North Bellingham, Mountain View and Skyline – then moved onto Vista Middle School and eventually Ferndale High, where she graduated in 1989. During her time at FHS, Hall was actively involved and enjoyed all aspects of high school. 

Despite not having worked in Ferndale before this year, Hall said she still feels a sense of comfort being in her hometown. 

“I am excited to be wearing my blue and gold again, being a Golden Eagle,” she said. 

 

FUN FACTS ABOUT TRINA HALL 

Favorite food: Chips and salsa 

Favorite hobby: Going to the lake 

Favorite movie: Steel Magnolias 

Favorite musical artist: Eric Church 

If she could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive: Her Grandpa Arvid 

If her life was a movie, who would she cast as herself: Reese Witherspoon