Ms. Lorina Harris named Assistant Principal at Mendel Elementary

TOKYO, Japan – Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Pacific East District Superintendent Dr. Jacqueline Ferguson is pleased to announce the selection of Ms. Lorina Harris as Assistant Principal at Mendel Elementary School, located at Yokota Air Base, effective Feb. 2, 2026. 

Ms. Harris brings over a decade of experience as an educator and school leader to the DoDEA community. During her career, she has taught in many roles, including three years in Special Education, two years in kindergarten and first grade, and five years in second and third grade. Harris has embraced leadership opportunities that strengthen schools and communities, including serving on Continuous School Improvement teams, chairing grade-level committees, supporting family engagement as PTO Vice President, and participating in numerous school initiatives. These experiences have shaped her belief that every child deserves a supportive and engaging learning environment.

She holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas Permian Basin and a bachelor’s degree of Business Administration in Marketing and Management. 

As a military spouse of 20 years and a parent of three children educated in DoDEA schools, Harris deeply understands the unique strengths of military-connected students, as well as the challenges they face. This perspective fuels her commitment to fostering strong school–home partnerships and ensuring every student feels valued and supported.

Outside of school, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, and volunteering within the base community. Harris is passionate about empowering every student to succeed and is excited to continue fostering a supportive, collaborative school culture while actively contributing to the Yokota Air Base community.