Superintendent/Principal Message

 

My name is Raul Ramirez and I havespent most of my life in Ventura County, having grown up in Oxnard and now living in Camarillo with my wife and two children. For most of my formative years growing up, my parents were farmworkers; their hard work and dedication left an indelible mark that I carry to this day. As an educational leader, my career has spanned elementary through high school, with my most recent role as Assistant Superintendent for Santa Barbara Unified School District. My leadership is largely grounded on a few core principles which I have done my best to abide by throughout my career. To begin with, I have an unwavering belief in the potential of all students and believe it is our responsibility as educators to aid them in turning that limitless potential into success.

It is important we understand success may look different for every child, but it is critical they receive the very best of us each day. Unfortunately, our kids do not benefit from having the same starting points in their lives. Therefore, I have made it my mission to bring an equity lens to my decision-making as a leader. Finally, it is only through our collective efforts as a community that we are at our best. My role as a leader is to ensure everyone in our community sees themselves as playing an essential role, where they feel their contributions lead to a greater good. This is possible only through respectful and collaborative relationships that foster trust and promote inclusion. Because these principles are so much a part of my leadership, I will make a commitment to lead by example and through my interactions with our learning community. 

Assistant Principal Message

 

My name is Kim Kuklenski, and I have been a part of the Mesa community since I was 12 years old. I was a student at Mesa during my Jr. High years. Then I returned back to the community in 2002 as an instructional aide and substitute. In 2005, I came aboard as a teacher, and have had 13 years of teaching experience. My two children are also products of the Mesa community. I am vested and believe in this community, and this year I am excited to continue to serve as your assistant principal.

It is my mission to ensure that all students feel connected to the school, and that parents trust that we will work for them to provide the very best for their children. All staff will work together to help every student achieve academic, behavioral, and social emotional growth and success.

I look forward to building upon the work we did with CHAMPS last school year. CHAMPS is a framework for behavioral expectations that lays the foundation for students to be successful. Last year we established our Guidelines for Success, Top School Rules, identified best classroom practices, and greatly increased our positive student recognition. This school year, we look forward to increasing student connectedness, strengthening student-adult relationships, and ensuring that all students feel supported and successful.

I feel so blessed to continue to be a part of this amazing community and look forward to the opportunity to serve the needs of our staff, families, and students.