To the Scotts Valley Schools Community,
We are nearing the end of the school year and are already looking toward and planning for the next. This is an important time of year for staffing decisions, and we have some meaningful changes coming to our SVUSD Leadership Team to share.
Alex Friel, who has led our academic team as Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment for the past three years, will be stepping down from her position to spend more time with her family. We thank Ms. Friel for her dedicated service and know that her positive impact will remain with us for years to come.
Stepping up and replacing her will be Sarah Gialdini, who will be moving on from her current role as the SVHS principal. Coming into the District office, Ms. Gialdini has the benefit of knowing our high school exceptionally well and will use this experience to effectively guide our programs forward without disruption.
Joe Allen, our current middle school principal and a member of the Dolphin Team for 18 years, will become the new high school principal. On this first day as a Falcon in the fall, he will undoubtedly see many familiar faces.
We have yet to fill the role Mr. Allen will leave open at the middle school. We hope to have this vacancy filled in the coming days.
SVUSD has always worked with determination to provide each student with a learning experience that matches their needs and maximizes their potential. Our success in this effort is founded upon the work and dedication of our staff. In considering these new placements, your district leaders, including the Board of Trustees, have placed high value on the knowledge and skills of the members of our own team. We believe that at this moment, continuity is critical. Fortunately for us, we have excellent leaders who are ready and willing to take on these new roles in service to our students.
Sincerely,
Tanya Krause, Superintendent