PUSD Announces New Principals for Chaparral, Pomerado Elementaries

Poway Unified Superintendent John Collins has recommended several people to head local schools, including new principals for Chaparral and Pomerado elementary schools.

Robin Robinson, the principal at Creekside Elementary, has been suggested for Chaparral Elementary School, and Luis Ortiz, an assistant principal at Murrieta Elementary School in Murrieta, CA, has been selected to lead Pomerado Elementary School.

Word came Monday that Abraxas High School's Ron Garrett would be recommended to head Poway High School after Scott Fisher retires this year. His seat at Abraxas would be filled by Dave MacLeod, the school's assistant principal. The formal announcement was made Tuesday.

All recommendations are subject to the school board's approval. The next meeting is set for Monday, June 24.

“Once again Poway Unified School District is fortunate to announce the assignment of seven talented and dedicated principals at the elementary, middle and high school level," Collins said in a statement. "I am confident that each of these individuals will provide the commitment and leadership necessary to allow each of these school sites to continue their great work and growth for the future.”

New principals also have been recommended for Creekside, Highland Ranch, Willow Grove and Stone Ranch elementaries. Pomerado Elementary School's current principal, Lisa Danzer, has been chosen to be Stone Ranch's new principal.

About the new principals, from PUSD's announcement:

Chaparral Elementary School: 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 Elementary School: Luis Ortiz

Luis Ortiz is new to Poway Unified, currently serving as an assistant principal at Tovashal Elementary School in Murrieta, California. 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!”

Abraxas High School: David 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 High School: 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.”

Editor's Note: This story has been updated. The new leaders are for elementary, middle and high schools. The story also incorrectly stated that Luis Ortiz was the assistant principal at Murrieta Elementary School due to an error in a school district press release. Ortiz works at Tovashal Elementary School.