David Pinder, Principal, McKinley Technology High School

David Pinder believes in empowering educators and students, in developing high performing professional learning communities, and in implementing strategies that drive incredible student achievement gains. Since beginning his education career in 1999 as a social studies teacher, he has served as principal, assistant principal, department chair, academy leader and AVID coordinator. Mr. Pinder’s accomplishments as a principal include being selected as an Education Champion by New Leaders for New Schools and America Achieves in 2010, 2011, and 2012; acting as an advisor to DCPS for the Mary Jane Patterson Fellowship Program; and serving as a Mentor Principal to three New Leaders residents. Most importantly, as principal of McKinley Technology High School since 2007, Mr. Pinder has transformed McKinley Tech into a positive learning environment that prepares students for success in college and in life. He has led a team of educators toward impressive gains in student achievement in both reading and math.