Two new principals hired for San Rafael

San Rafael City Schools has hired two new principals to head up San Rafael High School and Venetia Valley School.

Kit Pappenheimer replaces Judy Colton, who is retiring after 11 years as San Rafael High principal.

Cindy Jaconette will replace Pepe Gonzalez at Venetia Valley, a kindergarten-through-eighth grade school.

Both principals were selected after a rigorous interview process that included two panels of about 30 individuals that encompassed teachers, students, parents, administrative staff and community members.

"These candidates rose to the top in terms of their experience and talents as leaders for our schools," said Michael Watenpaugh, San Rafael City Schools superintendent. "I know they have the skill to take our schools to the next level and improve student achievement while working with their respective communities and parents."