Leadership
Dr. Alicia Fischer is excited to be Principal at Chaska Middle School West. Throughout her career, she has dedicated her professional life to working with students, families, and staff to create positive outcomes for young people. Principal Fischer has served in several educational roles: high school teacher, student counsel advisor, softball coach, instructional coach, assistant principal, and lead principal for four years in St. Cloud Area Schools.
Principal Fischer is a self-directed and passionate school leader who inspires faculty and staff to create safe, caring, and academically rigorous environments that prepare students for success. She believes in setting high expectations and providing the necessary academic, social-emotional, and family supports to ensure that every student is engaged, educated, and included.
Principal Fischer’s Core Beliefs:
- Relationships are everything. This begins with creating a welcoming school environment that prioritizes communication, encourages authentic connection, and builds on the strengths and dreams of teachers and students.
- All students can learn and excel academically. This begins by developing strong partnerships with families, students, communities, teachers, and staff through positive relationships.
- Schools need a culture of learning and continuous improvement. This includes planning building-wide and district-wide professional development opportunities for teachers and analyzing student achievement data to design plans for improvement
These outcomes are achieved through high expectations and high support for all. West's talented staff works tirelessly to bring the school district’s mission to life. Please follow Principal Fischer on Instagram @cmswprincipal. She enjoys using social media as a way to connect with stakeholders.
Mark Shoquist serves as the assistant principal at Chaska Middle School West, returning for his second time working at the building. He first came to the district and Chaska Middle School West in 1999 when he was the Administrative Dean and Activities Director, back when the school served eighth and ninth grade students.
He has held leadership roles across Eastern Carver County Schools, including Assistant Principal for academics at Chanhassen High School and Principal/Assistant Principal at Pioneer Ridge when it was the Freshmen Center.
Mr. Shoquist has a strong background in teaching and administration that has always been student-centered. He cares deeply about what is best for students, both as individuals and as a community. He values his work, his colleagues, and the opportunity to help students grow and succeed.
Feel free to contact him, as his door is always open.
My name is Mike Low, and I am honored to be the Administrative Dean at Chaska West Middle School. It is with great enthusiasm and commitment that I dedicate myself to serving and supporting every student that enters our learning environment.
Having spent many years in education, I bring with me a deep passion for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and personally. My vision for our community is one where diversity is celebrated, voices are heard, and every individual feels empowered to reach their fullest potential.
Whether you have questions, concerns, or simply want to connect, I am here to listen and support you every step of the way. Together, let us continue to build a culture that values integrity, respect, and collaboration. I look forward to working together with our students, staff, and families to create a valuable and meaningful experience for every scholar here at Chaska Middle School West.