Alexandra Hassett, Principal
Hello! My name is Alex Hassett, and I am thrilled to return to Baranoff Elementary as your principal!
As a lifelong learner, I am dedicated to providing all our students with equitable access to high-quality, student-centered education. With eleven years in education, I've taught 3rd-5th grades at Sims, Jordan, and Baranoff Elementary, and served as the assistant principal at Baldwin Elementary. My experience also includes being a cooperating teacher for Texas State and Region 13, earning my National Board Certification (Middle Childhood Generalist), and completing the Austin ISD Transformative Technology pathway and The University of Texas Principal Leadership Academy Residency. 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 (though I'm not an Aggie), and a Bachelor’s in Applied Learning and Development from The University of Texas. Additionally, I have mentored in The University of Texas Principal Leadership Academy Austin ISD cohort and support mentees in San Antonio ISD through the University of Texas Wallace Foundation Grant.
In my free time, I enjoy watching college football, rooting for my Texas Longhorns, and supporting the Patriots on Sundays alongside my husband, Drew, a passionate Boston fan. We both love playing golf, experimenting with new recipes, and walking our Corgis, Windsor and Lady. I'm also an enthusiastic Peloton rider, shopper, traveler, pickleball player, and reader.
I am deeply honored and excited to serve the Baranoff community once again!
Micaela Kenworthy-Templin, Assistant Principal
My name is Micaela Kenworthy-Templin, and I am a dedicated educator with a foundation in educational leadership and curriculum. I hold a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Texas State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary School Curriculum from Concordia State University.
Since 2017, I have been a committed member of Baranoff Elementary School, as a 5th Grade Math and Science Teacher. I have taken on various leadership roles, including Lead Mentor, 5th Grade Team Leader, and Gifted and Talented Campus Co-Advocate. Additionally, I have helped lead initiatives at Baranoff such as the campus Spirit Squad, the Culturally Responsive Leadership Cohort, and the Equity Empowerment Team, showcasing my dedication to student engagement and inclusivity.
I am passionate about professional growth and have participated in numerous development programs and leadership activities. My efforts have been recognized with several awards, including Teacher of the Year (2022-2023) and Creative Learning Initiative Ambassador. I also actively stay involved with and contribute to our school community, serving on the Campus Advisory Council and the Parent Teacher Association executive board.
As Assistant Principal, I am committed to fostering a collaborative and dynamic learning environment. My strong leadership, communication skills, and dedication to educational excellence are reflected in my achievements and ongoing contributions to the school community.
In my spare time, I enjoy taking dance classes and spending quality time with my husband, Adam, and our family and friends. I am excited to be continuing my educational journey at Baranoff in this leadership role. Go big blue!
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 six years, and live with my fiancé, Madeleine, and my Black Labrador Retriever, Thurston.