Easter R. Finley

Easter Nacionales Finley is a seasoned educator and transformational leader with over 34 years of experience in secondary education. Currently serving as Principal of Southwest Senior High School in the Sweetwater Union High School District, she has dedicated her career to shaping inclusive, high-performing learning environments where students and educators alike can thrive. Her extensive experience includes roles as a science teacher, curriculum specialist, federal grant coordinator, and principal at both middle and high school levels. A pioneer in educational communication, Dr. Finley was among the first in her district to leverage social media as a tool for connecting schools and families.

Throughout her career, Dr. Finley has been recognized for her ability to lead with purpose, compassion, and vision. She has guided schools through major cultural transformations—most notably leading Eastlake Middle School during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and launching innovative initiatives to strengthen student engagement and well-being. In addition to her work in school leadership, she has provided professional development and consultation through her independent educational consultancy, focusing on curriculum design, instructional leadership, and equity-driven practices.

A doctoral candidate in Education through the joint program at Claremont Graduate University and San Diego State University, Ms. Finley continues to advance her scholarly and professional pursuits. Grounded in her faith and guided by a deep love for learning, she remains committed to empowering the next generation of educators and students. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys developing into a social media influencer, cooking, baking, and sharing her faith—values that reflect the warmth and balance she brings to every part of her work and life.

• Claremont Graduate University- Ph.D.

• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development