New Principals Appointed for Two Pasadena Elementary Schools

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Students from Pasadena elementary schools participating in a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

News Summary

Charel Bailey and Reyna Uka have been appointed as principals of Norma Coombs Elementary School and Washington Elementary STEM Magnet School, respectively. Both bring extensive educational experience and a commitment to student-centered environments. These leadership changes aim to enhance support for diverse student populations and foster effective educational practices within the district. Bailey holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, while Uka has a master’s degree in educational administration, positioning them to positively impact their schools and the wider community.

PASADENA – Charel Bailey has been appointed as the new principal of Norma Coombs Elementary School, while Reyna Uka will take over as principal of Washington Elementary STEM Magnet School. These changes aim to enhance the educational leadership within the district and further support the development of inclusive, student-centered environments.

Charel Bailey brings over 15 years of experience as an educator and administrator, with a background in K-12 and higher education. Her leadership philosophy places a strong emphasis on fostering supportive student services and effective school counseling practices. Bailey’s wealth of knowledge is expected to benefit the students at Norma Coombs Elementary as she takes over the role previously held by Ray Cross, who has been appointed as the head of the Center for Independent Study at Rose City High School and Twilight Adult School.

Reyna Uka joins Washington Elementary STEM Magnet School with 17 years of educational experience. Before her new role, Uka served as the District Magnet School Coordinator, focusing on magnet programs, curricular development, and instructional leadership. Recently, she successfully managed a $15 million magnet grant, working in collaboration with various schools to develop curriculum, instructional strategies, and communication frameworks. Uka takes over from Karrone Meeks, who has accepted a new position as Principal on Special Assignment.

Both Bailey and Uka possess impressive educational credentials that prepare them for their new positions. Bailey holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California and has degrees in Communication Studies from California State University, Long Beach. Additionally, she is qualified with credentials in School Counseling Leadership and Education Administration from California State University, Los Angeles.

Uka also has notable academic achievements to her name, holding a master’s degree in educational administration and an administrative credential from National University. Furthermore, she has a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

The appointments of Bailey and Uka come at a time when school leadership is vital for facilitating positive educational experiences for students. Their backgrounds indicate a strong commitment to enhancing student support and advocating for the needs of diverse student populations.

In summary, Charel Bailey is set to lead Norma Coombs Elementary, bringing a rich background in educational administration aimed at supporting student-centered learning environments. Meanwhile, Reyna Uka’s expertise in magnet programs and instructional leadership positions her as a capable successor at Washington Elementary STEM Magnet School. As both leaders transition into their new roles, they are expected to make a significant impact within their respective schools and the wider educational community.