FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 3, 2026

Heather Bailey, Coordinator of District Communications

Phone: 707-837-7701, ext. 1013; Email: hbailey@wusd.org

WUSD announces Gilbertson as the new principal for Mattie Washburn Elementary

PRESS RELEASE 

Windsor, Calif.—The Windsor Unified School District (WUSD) is pleased to announce that Shjon Gilbertson will be the new principal for Mattie Washburn Elementary (MWE) for the 2026-27 school year. Gilbertson has most recently served as a Teacher on Special Assignment at Brooks Elementary School.  

Gilbertson brings with him a unique blend of leadership experience, educational passion, and deep community roots. Before entering the field of education, he spent more than 20 years as a county supervisor for a telecommunications company, where he led high-performing teams to success through a philosophy grounded in servant leadership. Throughout his corporate career, he developed a strong reputation for building cohesive teams, empowering individuals, and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.

“Shjon is going to be a game changer for Mattie Washburn,” said Superintendent Jeremy Decker. “‘Servent leadership’ is not just a buzz word to Shjon, it’s simply who he is. We are excited to see what he builds at Mattie.”

In 2018, Gilbertson decided to leave the stability of his established career to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. Driven by his passion for education and a desire to make a meaningful difference in students’ lives, he earned his Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Sonoma State University while teaching across multiple grade levels from Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade.

He began his full-time teaching career at Cali Calmécac Language Academy, a school that holds special significance for him and his family. Since 2006, all four of his daughters—Sophia, Meredith, Natalie, and Charlotte—have attended schools within the Windsor community. His professional journey and personal life have been deeply intertwined with the district, strengthening his commitment to serving its students and families.

“Leaving the classroom was not an easy decision,” said GIlbertson. “After working so hard to fulfill my dream of becoming a teacher, stepping away from daily classroom instruction required thoughtful reflection.

“However, I recognized an opportunity to merge my decades of leadership and team-building experience with my enduring passion for education. Pursuing school administration became the natural next step — an opportunity to bridge both worlds and expand my impact beyond a single classroom to an entire school community,” he concluded.

“Shjon’s many years in leadership and experience in education have built a solid administrative foundation,” said Director of Human Resources Pete Sullivan. “His collaborative style, his real-world experience, and his genuine love for kids and education make him ready and able to step up to this level.”

A lifelong Sonoma County resident, Gilbertson treasures the unique beauty and opportunities the region offers. He enjoys camping, hiking, traveling, and exploring the outdoors, especially in the remarkable landscape of Sonoma County, which he has proudly called home his entire life. 

Above all, Gilbertson values his role as a father to his four daughters and remains deeply grateful for the exceptional schools and community that have shaped their educational journeys.

“I am beyond thrilled and deeply honored to be chosen to lead the Mattie Washburn campus,” said Gilbertson. “The strength of the faculty, staff, students, and the broader school community is truly inspiring. I look forward to working alongside this incredible team to continue fostering a supportive, student-centered environment where every child can thrive.”

Gilbertson will be officially in charge on July 1, but he plans to spend the rest of the year becoming familiar with Mattie and its staff, and preparing for the transition, as his duties at Brooks allow. Windsor Unified School District is excited to welcome Gilbertson to Mattie Washburn Elementary School and looks forward to the leadership, dedication, and heart he brings to the role.

###