2 Laguna Beach Administrators Ranked Best In CA

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Two Laguna Beach Unified School District administrators were honored this month, after the Association of California School Administrators announced its 2024 Administrators of the Year.

Victoria Webber, executive assistant to the superintendent and board, was named the Classified Leader of the Year, while El Morro Elementary School Principal Julie Hatchel was named the Elementary Principal of the Year.

The Association of California School Administrators, alternatively known as the ACSA, is the largest umbrella organization for school leaders in the country.

"Victoria is a leader within LBUSD. While her official title is Executive Assistant to the Superintendent, that barely scratches the surface of her contributions to our team of five school board members," LBUSD Board of Education President Jan Vickers said.

"From agenda preparation and minute-taking to planning and scheduling meetings around multiple calendars, the tasks she manages are both critical and time-consuming. Beyond these responsibilities, Victoria adeptly supports the superintendent and his leadership team with thoroughness and efficiency."

With over 25 years of service in public education, Webber plays a pivotal role in bridging communication amongst the governance team and ensuring organizational efficiency to facilitate effective school district governance.

"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be recognized by ACSA and my fellow colleagues," Webber told Patch. "The ACSA Awards program shines a light on the dedication of school leaders, and I am honored to be a part of that."

According to an ACSA news release, one of the association's priorities is to ensure that school leaders are recognized for their excellence and dedication to public education. Administrators of the year are chosen for outstanding performance and achievement in their respective categories.

Candidates for the award are nominated by their peers and are selected for their outstanding performance and achievement in their respective categories.

"We are incredibly proud to see two of our LBUSD administrators honored by ACSA Region 17. Victoria and Julie represent the best of what LBUSD stands for. Their dedication to our students and staff and commitment to innovative leadership has rightfully earned them the recognition of Classified Leader of the Year and Elementary Principal of the Year, respectively,” LBUSD Superintendent Jason Viloria said.

According to the news release, Hatchel brings more than 30 years of experience in public education to LBUSD with an extensive background that includes teaching at elementary, middle and high schools.

"I have appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with ACSA in advocating for our students across the state. It has been a blessing to work with so many amazing people throughout my administrative career who are part of this recognition,” Hatchel said. “I am extremely grateful for my LBUSD and El Morro team, who have brought so much support and joy to the work that we are privileged to do for our kids."