Summit High Assistant Principal Mary Thomas named to lead Realms Middle and High School

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Mary Thomas has been selected as the next principal of Realms Middle and High School, beginning in the 2025-26 school year, Bend-La Pine Schools announced Thursday.

Thomas currently serves as assistant principal at Summit High School, a role she has held for six years, and previously served one year as interim principal at High Desert Middle School.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mary Thomas as the next leader of Realms,” Superintendent Steven Cook said. “Mary’s diverse experience — spanning large comprehensive high schools, alternative settings, and smaller private schools — makes her exceptionally well-suited to carry forward the school’s powerful Expeditionary Learning mission. Her leadership will help ensure that Realms continues to offer students transformative, hands-on learning experiences.”

Zach Harju, who stepped into the role of interim principal at Realms this year, will return to his role as assistant principal next year.

Thomas was a classroom teacher for middle and high school students for 17 years in Bend, Sisters, Indonesia and the Portland area. She also has 10 years of experience as an educator for outdoor schools in the Portland area. 

“My philosophy is to lead with kindness and listen to understand and support all voices,” Thomas said. “I am excited to join a passionate team of EL educators who put students first and create inspiring learning experiences. I look forward to collaborating with the entire Realms community to support a safe, welcoming and inviting environment for learning.”