Who's the Boss? New School Year Brings New Principals to Poway

Poway Unified is kicking off a new school year with nearly a dozen new principals across the district, including four in Poway. Learn a little bit about the new school heads, some who might be familiar faces. See a full list of principals for the entire district attached to this story.

(Biographies provided by PUSD)

Elementary

Chaparral: Robin Robinson

"Robin Robinson is currently the principal at Creekside Elementary School and has served in that role for the past eight years. Prior to that, Robin served in the district for 22 years as a middle school teacher at Twin Peaks Middle School, a Teacher On Special Assignment (TOSA) at Poway High School, and an assistant principal at Chaparral Elementary and Westview High Schools.

Ms. Robinson earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Biola University, and her Master of Arts Degree from California State University, Los Angeles. Robin shares, 'My greatest blessings come from serving children, teachers, and parents to ensure we are always doing what is best for kids. There is nothing more gratifying than seeing a child excited about learning and proud of their accomplishments both academically and personally.' "

Pomerado: Luis Ortiz

"Luis Ortiz is new to Poway Unified, currently serving as an assistant principal at Tovashal Elementary School in Murrieta, CA. He is also a National Faculty Member of the Josephson Institute of Ethics, Character Counts!, and has conducted trainings in character development since 2007. Mr. Ortiz began his educational career as a bilingual instructional assistant in San Diego Unified School District in 1986, and taught in Cajon Valley from 1994-2001, before taking on his current assistant principal position in 2002.

Mr. Ortiz’ educational background includes a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Christian Heritage College, and a Master of Science Degree in Education and Administration from National University. Mr. Ortiz is happy to be returning to the San Diego area. 'It’s such a privilege to have been chosen as a school community leader in this prestigious district that has a strong record of achieving extraordinary results!' "

High School

Abraxas: Dave MacLeod

"David MacLeod has been a member of the Abraxas High School team for the past six years as a Science teacher and currently serves as the school’s assistant principal. Before coming to Abraxas, he worked in private industry at General Dynamics and Dynamic Scheduling & Management, Ltd.

Mr. MacLeod earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice from Montana State University and a Master of Education Degree in Cross-Cultural Education from National University. Mr. MacLeod states, 'Abraxas is an amazing school and I am thrilled to be its new principal. These remarkable staff members really care and build long-lasting relationships with our students. I invite any interested parents to contact me to learn more about this great place.' "

Poway: Ron Garrett

"Ron Garrett is currently in his 20th year in Poway Unified. During the 2012-2013 school year, he served as the principal of Abraxas High School. Previous to this leadership position, he was an assistant principal at Mt. Carmel High School for 12 years and a Science teacher at Poway High School. Prior to joining Poway Unified School District, he taught in Texas.

Mr. Garrett earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geology from Stony Brook University in New York, and a Master of Science Degree in Educational Administration from National University.

Mr. Garrett notes, 'It’s an honor to again be part of the tradition of excellence that has made Poway High School a great place for our students.' "