July 12, 2007

Principal elements
Castle Rock, Quail Summit get new leaders
By Maritza Velazquez, Staff Writer

Diamond Bar has two new additions.

And they're passionate and excited to be here.

Castle Rock and Quail Summit elementary schools welcomed Jackie Brown and Alysia Shen as they began their tenures as principals July 1.

"I was excited to apply," said Brown. "I get to work in a school district where the values and foundation is unchanged."

The philosophy of the Walnut Valley Unified School District is "Kids First," which is one reason both of these administrators were chosen for the positions.

"They both are consistent with our `Kids First' philosophy," said Brian Cole, assistant superintendent. "I think (they) see strength in curriculum and instruction."

The two went through an extensive application process in which they were interviewed in front of a panel of teachers, administrators and parents.

Brown has a master's degree from Cal State Fullerton and has taught in the classroom for 17 years.

The 50-year-old Yorba Linda resident was a learning specialist in the WVUSD and left to pursue an opportunity to be principal at Vine Elementary School in West Covina.

"I'm just glad to be back in this community," Brown said.

Alysia Shen has a master's degree from Cal State Los Angeles and will begin her doctorate at USC in the fall.

The Walnut resident, who will now receive a yearly salary or $101,000, comes from Newton Middle School in the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District where she served as assistant principal for a year.

"I really value what this district believes in," she said.

Both women are very passionate about their work, and about the children.

"It's always been my passion," Brown said. "Elementary school is why I get up in the morning. It's (the kids') love of learning that no other age-level has."

They firmly believe that to be successful as principals, a strong connection and interaction with parents and students is vital.

"You have to build relationships with them," Shen said. "There's credibility, they can listen to you and they know you."