PUSD Picks New Turtleback Elementary Principal

Janet Bernard, who has been Turtleback Elementary School's principal since January, has been chosen to fill the role permanently, it was announced Friday.

The selection is up for final approval at the Poway Unified School District Board meeting on Tuesday.

"I am so excited to have an opportunity to positively impact student learning at Turtleback," Bernard said in a statement. "I'm looking forward to being part of a great staff and wonderful school community. This spring I had the chance to get to know the terrific Turtleback students. I look forward to inspiring learning and helping each student succeed."

Bernard, who had previously worked in PUSD and has a long background in education, stepped in for former principal Celeste Campbell after she took a leave of absence.

"We are very pleased to welcome Janet Bernard back to Poway," Superintendent John Collins said in a statement. "Janet's work at Turtleback this spring has begun a solid, professional connection with staff, parents and students that inspires mutual respect and a strong focus on learning.

"Her experience and collegial manner fit with a school like Turtleback, where staff and parents work together to provide the very best opportunities for students."

According to a district news release, Bernard got her start teaching music in Carlsbad, where she also taught elementary and middle school. She was a principal in the South Bay Union and San Marcos school districts, and an associate superintendent in the Little Rock (Arkansas) School District.

As for PUSD, Bernard worked in the district for five years as a director in Learning Support Services and Personnel Support Services.

She also received a BA and MA from San Diego State University.

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