Dawn Barnes

Dawn Barnes proudly serves as the principal of Aspire Antonio Maria Lugo Academy (AMLA), where she has led with purpose, love, and a deep commitment to community since 2019. In 2025, AMLA was recognized as a California Distinguished School and received PBIS Gold Recognition. This recognition reflects the academic growth, collective effort, and dedication of its students, families, educators, and staff.

With more than 25 years in public education, Dawn is a passionate advocate for healing-centered education where joy, rigor, equity, and belonging thrive. Throughout her career, she has served as a classroom teacher, Literacy Coach, Content Specialist, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Her leadership is grounded in relationships, data-informed decision-making, and a deep belief in the brilliance of every child. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education: Trauma Studies from Pacific Oaks College and a Bachelor of Arts in Child Development from California State University, Los Angeles. She believes schools can be powerful spaces of healing and transformation where students feel seen, supported, challenged, and inspired to grow.

As principal, Dawn works alongside the AMLA team to elevate student voice and choice and ensure every learner is known, valued, and celebrated. Together, they are building a school rooted in relationships, grounded in community, and powered by joy.

Outside of school, Dawn is a proud mother to an adult son. She enjoys spending time outdoors, whether taking long walks, exploring new places, or simply soaking up the sunshine.