Alexandra Hassett, Principal 

My name is Alex Hassett, and I’m honored and excited to continue serving as the proud principal of Baranoff Elementary!

As a lifelong learner, I’m committed to ensuring every student has equitable access to a high-quality, student-centered education. Over the past twelve years, I’ve taught 3rd through 5th grade at Sims, Jordan, and Baranoff Elementary, and I previously served as the assistant principal at Baldwin Elementary.

My journey in education has also included mentoring and leadership development. I’ve been a cooperating teacher for Texas State and Region 13, earned National Board Certification (Middle Childhood Generalist), and completed both the Austin ISD Transformative Technology Pathway and The University of Texas Principal Leadership Academy Residency.

Academically, I hold a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy from The University of Texas, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M (I’m not an Aggie!), and a Bachelor’s in Applied Learning and Development from The University of Texas. I’ve also supported aspiring school leaders through mentoring roles in the UT Principal Leadership Academy and the Wallace Foundation Grant with San Antonio ISD.

Outside of school, I enjoy watching college football (Hook ’em Horns \m/), cheering for the Patriots with my husband Drew—a die-hard Boston sports fan—and spending time with our son, Archer, who joined our family this July! I’m also an avid Peloton rider, traveler, reader, shopper, and pickleball enthusiast.

It is a true privilege to lead and serve the Baranoff community. I’m looking forward to another incredible year together!

Angela Beach, Assistant Principal

Hello Buffalo Family. My name is Angela Beach. 

I am passionate about education and dedicated to creating enriching, inclusive learning environments. With a diverse background that includes teaching, curriculum development, and administration, I bring a well-rounded perspective to every role I undertake. I am proud to be an alumnus of the University of Texas at Austin, and I hold a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with Educational Administration from Concordia University.

My journey has taken me across Texas, Spain, and China, where I’ve had the privilege of serving in various educational roles. These experiences have broadened my understanding of different cultural and pedagogical approaches, fueling my commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative educational community.

At the heart of my teaching philosophy is a belief in the power of collaboration among teachers, students, and parents. I prioritize building trust, engaging in data-driven reflection, and ensuring that learning is accessible and inclusive for everyone. My leadership approach is inspired by Patrick Lencioni’s traits of being hungry, humble, and smart—values that encourage me to lead with passion, humility, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference.

Outside of school, I find joy in playing soccer with my boys, running to stay active, and cooking Spanish-inspired dishes that bring my family together. 

I am so excited to be part of the Baranoff team and ready for a great year. 

John Schaeffer, Assistant Principal

My name is John Schaeffer, and I started teaching in 2015 at Jackson Preparatory and Early College in Jackson, Michigan, later moving to Georgetown ISD in 2018. In my five years there, I became head of the Social Studies department and boys' soccer coach.

In 2023, I joined the University of Texas Principal Leadership Academy and Austin ISD Principal Residency programs to advance equity in education. In the first semester of the 2023-24 school year, I provided professional development, led Professional Learning Communities, and mentored new-to-campus teachers at St. Elmo Elementary School, aiming to close achievement gaps. Transitioning to Northeast Early College High School in spring 2024, I collaborated with the math department to improve intervention protocols, strengthen inclusive instructional practices, and develop after school tutorial programs for at-risk students.

For the upcoming school year, I aim to apply my skills to ensure equitable instruction and foster a collaborative campus culture focused on academic success for all at Baranoff Elementary School. In my spare time, I am an avid musician, primarily playing the drums. I also spend my time running, mountain biking, playing soccer, and snowboarding in the winter. I have been a resident of Austin for seven years, and live with my wife, Madeleine, and my Black Labrador Retriever, Thurston.