PALISADES ELEMENTARY

August, 2022

 

Dear Palisades Students, Parents and Staff,

 

I am honored to have been assigned to Palisades Elementary as the Assistant Principal. I am thrilled to be here 5 days a week supporting our students, parents, teachers and staff. This will be my tenth year in CUSD where I have served as an Elementary Assistant Principal and District SST/504 Coordinator. These are such important years in your child's life and I look forward to being part of their academic, social-emotional and behavioral success. I still remember each and every one of my elementary teacher's names! I value our partnership and look forward to working with great educators and committed staff this school year. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions, concerns, ideas, or just to introduce yourself. 

 

I grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota and moved to Huntington Beach to escape those cold winters and pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. This will be my 23rd year in education. My first eleven years I taught 3rd grade in Long Beach and 2nd grade in Arizona. I became an Instructional Coach for three years and this is when I developed the passion and interest in becoming a school leader. Being involved with and supporting all aspects of school learning and events is extremely rewarding. I feel so lucky to have a career I love! My husband Eric and I will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary this year. We have twin boys who will be juniors in high school. They keep us busy with cross country, surfing, and learning how to drive. 

 

I can't wait to get to know all of you!

 

​Dara Stephens
Assistant Principal
Palisades Elementary