After months of speculation, a newcomer has been selected as principal of the new Malibu elementary school.
Chris Hertz, who most recently served in the Beverly Hills Unified School District, was appointed by the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District Board of Education by a unanimous, 6-0, vote at its May 2 meeting. (Board Member Oscar de la Torre was not present at the meeting.)
After the new principal was introduced to the board by Superintendent Dr. Ben Drati, Hertz said, “I couldn’t think of a better job in the whole world for me.”
“I promise to pour my heart and all of my skills into the new school,” he added.
As principal of the new school, which combines Juan Cabrillo Elementary School and Point Dume Marine Science School at the latter’s site, he said his focus would be on welcoming the parents and informing them on how to take advantage of the school’s resources as well as making sure “teachers have the most professional experience possible.”
According to a statement shared by the school district, Hertz has more than 25 years of experience in education in various roles, including teacher, vice principal and principal.
In an email to parents and staff members of both elementary schools, Hertz wrote, “My leadership style begins with active listening, collaboration, problem-solving and working to build a plan in which everyone feels vested.”
He later added: “Merging two schools together will require sincere dedication and skill. Collectively we will bring the best traditions and practices of Juan Cabrillo and Point Dume Schools to our new ‘Malibu’ school.”
Hertz takes over from Dr. Pamela Herkner, who was in charge of both schools during the 2018-19 school year until an abrupt departure last month. Patricia Cairns currently heads the two schools through the end of the school year. The new principal is set to take over officially on July 1.