This upcoming school year is sure to be full of surprises. According to Principal  Murray- Lazarus, her plans for her sophomore year are to, “apply things that worked” so that we are more successful. She says this year “is more fun, less scary, and more comfortable.” “School is about substantial progress; in all areas (we want you to) move forward as far as you can go.” On the upcoming freshmen, Principal Lazarus felt that they have good energy and enthusiasm, which will help them “overcome anxiety for a successful transition.”

Not only do we have new students at PHS, but new teachers too. Some, such as Mr. David Mueller in the Social Studies Department and Mr. George Goess who will be replacing Ms. Gover during her leave of absence, are graduates of PHS.

Ms. Risoli  is now chair of the Second Language Department and Coach Pilero has been added to the Physical Education staff here.

Mrs. Angela Byrne, who will be teaching English is also a certified snowboarding instructor. She  is replacing Mr. Hutchinson who was moved to be Director of Literacy and the Gifted and Talented in Administration.

Ms. Hersh is replaced by, former Assistant Principal at PKMS and interim Principal at Hillcrest, Mr. Picou.

Mr. Coster, Guidance Counselor, has been moved to PKMS, and Ms. Saldana is now working with the high school. As a Bilingual Counselor, she will strengthen connections to the Latino community.

More middle school transfers include Ms. Lopez in Math to the high school, and Dr. Cazes who will be in the middle school for four periods.

Also, it was finally our turn to have our school repainted, starting with the hallways. Mrs. Lazarus says it was a good improvement because it shows “we care about the environment where we spend our instructional day… it’s inviting, bright, attractive, clean and well lit.”

On a final note, and smaller scale, the student agendas this year “highlight Coach Wooden’s principles of good character… traits that are important.” Hopefully these things will help us individually, as well as a school and team, to be successful.

Enjoy your year!