Dorothy McElhinney Principal Takes Job in Rancho Santa Fe; Interim Appointed

News release from the Murrieta Valley Unified School District:

Murrieta Valley Unified School District Superintendent Pat Kelley announced Wednesday that Dorothy McElhinney Middle School Principal Garrett Corduan has accepted a new position as Principal of R. Roger Rowe Middle School in Rancho Santa Fe in San Diego County.

Howard Dimler, who had been chosen to replace Randy Rogers at Monte Vista Elementary School, will now replace Corduan as interim principal at Dorothy McElhinney Middle School. Pam Picchiottino has been promoted from assistant principal to interim principal at Monte Vista Elementary.

Picchiottino has been an educator for 20 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University, a master’s in educational administration and an administrative credential from UC Riverside. Picchiottino has taught kindergarten through eighth grade and she served as an assistant principal at Tovashal Elementary before moving to Monte Vista.

District Superintendent Pat Kelley said, “Pam is dedicated to the well-being of students and she is committed to doing whatever it takes to make sure students are successful.”

Dimler taught fifth and sixth grade for 10 years before going to Thompson Middle School where he taught seventh grade. He moved to Vista Murrieta High School and served as a counselor before becoming an assistant principal nine years ago. Dimler has a bachelor's degree from the University of Victoria in Canada, a master’s degree from the University of LaVerne and an administrative credential from Azusa Pacific University.

Dimler and Picchiottino will serve as interim principals for the 2013/14 school year. Parents, faculty and staff will have an opportunity to give their input during the permanent principal selection process in the fall.

Superintendent Kelley said: “The number of promotions and retirements in the district created several opportunities for advancement and we are fortunate to have so many outstanding leaders to promote from within the district. Pam and Howard both bring proven leadership skills and a broad range of experience and I am confident they will work to provide a successful learning experience for the students.”