Remembering Barb Swindler: Former Principal and Faithful Leader of Southside Christian School
Barb Swindler was Southside Christian School’s principal from 2000 until her death in 2005. Under her leadership, the school expanded from a preschool to include elementary and middle school. Originally from Pennsylvania, Barb moved to Seattle with her husband, Geoff, before the family settled in Spokane. Barb and Geoff have two children, Olivia and Grace, both of whom attended Southside.
Barb was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999. She did not let the disease shake her faith or her commitment to the community. When she was asked to be the principal of Southside (a job she had no experience in doing), she didn’t blink before saying yes. Barb rallied friends around the vision for the school, championing the DIY remodel, even enlisting her two daughters to help paint the school’s hallway.
She made everyone around her feel loved and known—from the teachers to the barely threes. Her life was lived in a way that pointed everyone she met back to Christ. Barb passed away a few weeks before the start of the 2005-2006 school year, leaving behind a lasting legacy of people whose lives were changed by her kindness and hospitality.
A Life of Faith, Family, and Adventure
Barb enjoying the outdoors, a reflection of her adventurous and joyful spirit.
Barb with her husband Geoff and their daughters Olivia and Grace.
Honoring Her Legacy
Southside Christian School is grateful for the vision, faith, and love Barb Swindler poured into our community. Her legacy continues to live on in the students, families, and staff whose lives she touched.
