Ray Garcia-Morales

Principal Ray Garcia-Morales is an experienced and dedicated educational leader with over 25 years of service in various roles across the school system. From his beginnings as a school social worker to his recent work as Principal at Chief Sealth International High School, his career has always focused on fostering academic excellence, equity, and student well-being. His leadership has significantly impacted the schools he’s served, and he is known for his commitment to ensuring all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Foundations in Education and Social Work

Garcia-Morales' journey in education began as a school social worker, where he provided crucial support for students facing academic and emotional challenges. His work focused on advocating for multilingual learners and students with special needs, shaping his leadership approach. He believes in the power of education as a tool for social justice, and his early experiences helped reinforce the importance of addressing academic achievement and emotional well-being. These foundational years equipped him with a deep understanding of the complexities students face and the support they need to succeed.

Garcia-Morales transitioned into administrative roles, where he continued advocating for students. He served as Assistant Principal at Tyee High School and Cleveland High School, where he was instrumental in improving school culture, ensuring student safety, and promoting academic rigor. His leadership in these roles focused on creating inclusive, supportive environments where students could excel.

Leading at Chief Sealth International High School

In 2021, Ray Garcia-Morales became the Principal of Chief Sealth International High School, a position in which he has made a lasting impact. A strong focus on both academic excellence and mental health support has characterized his leadership. He has worked to cultivate a school culture where students feel safe, valued, and motivated to succeed. He has prioritized initiatives that support students' mental health and overall well-being, recognizing that a healthy, supportive environment is essential for learning.

Under his leadership, Chief Sealth has seen improvements in instructional quality and staff development. He has focused on ensuring that resources are used effectively to support students and staff. He is committed to fostering a collaborative environment where teachers and staff work together to provide students with the best educational experience.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

Beyond his work in education, Garcia-Morales has been actively involved in community-based initiatives. He co-founded Rebels & Scholars, a clothing brand that merged his love for the Pacific Northwest with a commitment to social justice. The brand was designed to empower undocumented students pursuing higher education by providing scholarships and creating community-driven retail experiences. Though the venture was successful, he stepped away to focus on his principal role and continue his work in education.

In addition to his entrepreneurial efforts, Garcia-Morales has contributed to numerous local organizations, including El Centro de la Raza, YouthCare, and FareStart. His volunteer work with these organizations reflects his deep belief in the importance of community involvement and social justice. He continues his volunteer work with the Union Gospel Mission and the Washington State Department of Corrections, focusing on supporting mental health and community well-being.

Personal Connection to the Pacific Northwest

A Seattle native, Garcia-Morales finds inspiration in the region’s natural beauty. Whether exploring urban parks or the Cascade Mountains, his connection to the land gives him a sense of balance and perspective. This love for the Pacific Northwest has shaped his personal and professional life and continues to drive his passion for supporting the community and the students he serves.

Ray Garcia-Morales’ educational leadership has been driven by his unwavering commitment to supporting student success and fostering inclusive, equitable learning environments. His efforts to ensure every student receives the support they need to succeed have impacted the schools he has served. His dedication to education and community engagement will undoubtedly inspire positive change as he continues to lead.

Garcia-Morales’ work has left an indelible mark on the education system, and his ongoing commitment to student advocacy, mental health, and social justice remains central to his mission as an educator and community leader.