San Jose Middle School In Novato Names New Assistant Principal

NOVATO, CA — San Jose Middle School has a new assistant principal. The Novato Unified School District announced Wednesday that Whitney McEachern has been named assistant principal of the school at 1000 Sunset Parkway.

McEachern has been with the district for 11 years.

"I am honored to become the assistant principal at San Jose and look forward to working with the incredible community of staff, students and families," McEachern said. "I plan to further NUSD's mission to engage, inspire and empower, with a focus on encouraging all learners to take their success into their own hands, while supporting students on their journeys."

A Novato resident, McEachern most recently served as an AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), AVID Excel and Leadership teacher. She also served as an English learner site coordinator, AVID site coordinator, and AVID Excel district co-coordinator, as well as an administrative designee, BTSA mentor, instructional coach, literacy coach and GATE leadership team member.

"Whitney has been an important and trusted teacher leader at SJMS for many years," Principal Debi Richardson said. "We value her expertise, her boundless enthusiasm, her positive outlook and her deep caring for students. She is truly a testament to her fine education in Novato Unified schools and to a work environment that fosters and rewards excellence."

Superintendent Kris Cosca said the district is excited for McEachern and San Jose Middle School.

"As a Novato native, Whitney understands the community and is deeply committed to ensuring that our students have every opportunity to achieve at the highest level," Cosca said. "She will bring that commitment to this new role."

McEachern's appointment is effective July 1, pending the board's approval on May 5. Former assistant principal Gabe Lund resigned from his role in March.

"As a product of NUSD, I have always been drawn to the Novato Unified School District having attended schools here from first through 12th grades," said McEachern, who has a child currently enrolled in a NUSD school and two more to follow. "There is nothing more rewarding than giving back to the community that shaped who I am today, both as a person and educator."