The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Manoj Mahindrakar as Principal of San Juan Hills School at the Board of Trustees’ March 18 meeting, effective July 1, 2020.
“I truly believe in the life changing power of a strong, supportive and empathetic education environment,” said Dr. Mahindrakar. “I am determined and excited to join the students, staff and community as a part of the San Juan Hills High success story, and can’t wait to Ride for the Brand!”
Dr. Mahindrakar is completing his eleventh year as a site administrator. For the past three years, he has served as Principal at Don Juan Avila Middle School. During this time, he revamped the school culture to reflect a focus on high achievement for all students, provided leadership to staff in developing a Professional Learning Community (PLC) site-wide, and established relationships with students, families, staff, and community leaders.
Previously, Dr. Mahindrakar also served as Assistant Principal at both San Clemente and Aliso Niguel High Schools where he collaborated with site leadership on professional development, student discipline, safety, activities, and school site budget. Additionally, he has served the students of Capistrano Unified as a Teacher, Teacher on Special Assignment, and Activities Director.
These experiences have proven Dr. Mahindrakar to be an inspiring and influential visionary leader, especially in the areas of guiding staff through the PLC process to improve overall student learning. He is highly regarded by students, parents, and colleagues due to his deep intellect, and friendly personality. He is “one of the most caring educators that I have known,” said Josh Hill, Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction, Secondary Schools.
“Dr. Mahindrakar’s ability to engage with his entire community has made a tremendous impact on Don Juan Avila Middle School,” said Superintendent Vital. “His collaborative work with both the staff and parent community will continue to move San Juan Hills High School in a positive, innovative, student focused direction,” said Superintendent Vital.
Capistrano Unified has opened the recruitment process and will engage the Don Juan Avila Middle School community in the selection of their new site leader.