The Peoria Unified School District hired two new principals for its elementary schools in Glendale, and they will start their new roles in the 2026-27 school year. They are:

Stacey Orest will be the new principal of Foothills Elementary School. She has more than 20 years of experience in public education. Orest currently serves as Foothills Fine Arts Academy’s assistant principal, where she guides staff through professional development to prioritize student success.

She was recently named as a Rookie of the Year by the district, recognizing her as one of the best new staff members. Prior to joining the district, Orest served in a variety of positions in the Paradise Valley Unified School District, including as an elementary school principal for their fine arts school.

Sherry Stillman is the current Foothills principal.

Orest has a master of arts in education leadership and a bachelor of science from Arizona State University, as well as a master of arts in educational technology from Northern Arizona University.

 Becky Hiner will be the new principal of Canyon Elementary School. With two decades of service to Peoria Unified, Hiner brings extensive experience in education with a commitment to student success, collaborative school culture and continuous improvement.

Hiner currently serves as principal at the “A” Rated Pioneer Elementary School, which is closing in May. She has focused on implementing school-wide learning goals through data-based approaches that aligned with the mission and vision of the district.

Kristen Balthis is the current principal at Canyon Elementary.

Hiner previously served as a Title I Interventionist and community learning center coordinator. She earned a bachelor of science and a master of arts from the University of Phoenix and a master of education from Northern Arizona University.