Education

Dr. Mooney’s passion for education was evident from the beginning. From the moment she stepped into a classroom as a student teacher, she knew she had found her calling. Her ability to establish a safe and respectful classroom environment played a major role in her success in the classroom, which led her to obtain a leadership role and advocate for students both inside and outside the classroom. Superintendent Mooney's undergraduate studies were conducted at Northwestern College Orange City, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Her education was furthered at Washington State University, where she received a master's degree in educational leadership. Moreover, she successfully defended her dissertation at Northcentral University, where she received an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership.

Leadership 
In 2019, the Hermiston School District (HSD) passed an $82.7 million capital improvement bond, leading to the replacement of Rocky Heights Elementary, the addition of Loma Vista Elementary, and an Annex at Hermiston High School. The district also enhanced safety and security across all buildings. Under Dr. Mooney’s leadership, student enrollment reached an all-time high, and HSD invested in K-5 reading and math instructional materials to ensure a consistent curriculum. Dr. Mooney's commitment to multiple student pathways earned the district recognition at the 2021 Model Schools Conference. HSD's Strategic Plan focuses on equitable outcomes, and graduation rates have remained steady. Dr. Mooney remains dedicated to supporting staff and the district’s vision: "Future Focused: Building Knowledge and Skills for Tomorrow.

Business Experience

Dr. Mooney's background as a community liaison and program manager has honed her skills in connecting with diverse groups. Her collaboration with the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indian Reservation led to the development of a local history-focused social studies curriculum and the launch of a heritage language program at Pendleton Early Learning Center in 2015. She also played a key role in securing a $50 million bond for replacing two elementary schools and constructing an educational learning center. Dr. Mooney's efforts in providing multiple student pathways earned the Hermiston School District recognition at the 2021 Model Schools Conference. She remains engaged with the community through her involvement with the Hermiston Kiwanis and Hermiston Education Foundation.