River City High School

Kristie Dornan is entering into her 23rd year in education. She holds two undergraduate degrees in Microbiology and Molecular and Cell Biology with a double minor in Biochemistry and Math. She holds two Masters degrees with one in Molecular and Cell Biology emphasis on the genetic basis for disease and another one in Educational Leadership. 

Kristie began her career in the Twin Rivers District at Grant High School before moving on to the Natomas District. She set her roots down here at River City High School where she has found a supportive staff, community and student population that she is committed to supporting to the fullest extent. She comes with experience in a multitude of areas in education including WASC Chair, MTSS, PBIS, Athletics Coach and Director, Assistant Principal, PLC and RTI, AVID, Induction Mentor and certified Conflict Resolution trainer. She has been awarded several accomodations including CIF Coach of the Year 2022, Teacher of the Year for the Natomas District and Excellence in Education for the Sacramento Region amongst a few. 

Outside of her role in education, Kristie enjoys hiking, running, playing most sports, avidly reading anything not nailed down, spending time with her family, Texas sports teams and random walks without purpose. 

Dr. John Armes is excited to begin his 12th year in education. His career is marked by a profound commitment to education and a distinguished academic background. Dr. Armes holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education, a Master of Education in Education Administration, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration.

Dr. Armes began his career in the Madera Unified School District, where he was the Director of Choirs and Piano. In 2016, he transitioned to Thomas Downey High School in Modesto, California, as the Director of Choirs and Theatre Arts. He later joined River City High School as the Director of Choirs and Piano, before transitioning to the role of Activities Director in 2023.

Beyond his educational roles, Dr. Armes is actively involved in community and professional performing arts organizations. An accomplished performer, he has taken lead roles in numerous productions across California and has had the honor of performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr. Armes enjoys traveling, cooking, camping, and attending live performances. His diverse interests and experiences enrich his role as an educational leader, bringing a unique perspective to his work and interactions with students and colleagues.

Tanya Banach Wells With over 20 years of dedicated service in education, Assistant Principal Tanya Banach Wells brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role at River City High School within the Washington Unified School District. Tanya has been a Yard Supervisor, Paraeducator, and State and Federal Categorical program Assistant for Folsom Cordova USD, then Site Manager with Gateway Community Charters, all while raising a family and pursuing her academic goals. Her dedication to education culminated in earning both an English credential and a Master's in Secondary Education which enabled her to teach English in grades 9-12 at various levels including Advanced Placement and Honors. In June, Mrs. Wells completed the Sacramento County Office of Education’s Preliminary Administration Program, further preparing her for her current role.

Tanya’s extensive background includes expertise in MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), new teacher mentorship, PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), Capturing Kids’ Hearts, Restorative Practices, WASC accreditation, Community Outreach, as well as State and Federal programs, and co-teaching with Special Education partners to enhance and build a better program designed to support students with diverse needs in achieving excellence in writing and reading comprehension. Outside of her professional life, Wells enjoys traveling with her husband, engaging in lively debates with her two sons, playing tabletop games, and taking long walks with her Border Collie/Corgi dogs. In many years, Wells hopes to retire near the Charles Schulz Museum, where she can educate others about the awesomeness of the Peanuts characters and Snoopy.