By Karen Trinh, Editor-in-Chief, and Kristie Hoang, News Editor
Principal Chris Herzfeld, who has worked at Fountain Valley High School for 14 years, may be assuming another principal position at Laguna Beach High School.
The announcement was made to teachers on Thursday after school during a meeting in the library. On Friday morning, Superintendent Greg Plutko approved Herzfeld’s departure.
At the moment, Herzfeld’s transition is pending board approval from the Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD). If it is approved on October 7, he will spend his last day at Fountain Valley High School on Friday, October 10.
The position at Laguna Beach High School had been open due to the fact that their former principal, JoAnn Culverhouse, had been hired as Palos Verdes Unified School District’s Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services before the start of the school year. LBHS has had an interim principal from Dana Hills High School while they conducted a nationwide search for Culverhouse’s replacement.
According to Herzfeld, he applied to work at LBHS because he felt that the time has come to take on a different professional challenge.
“At some point in time, it’s time to step aside and time to say this organization could use a change in leadership,” said Herzfeld. “I could take my set of skills to another site… I could probably benefit another school site pretty well.”
Herzfeld wanted what was best for his professional growth, as well as FVHS. He stated that he could easily stay, but that would be selfish and unfair to the school and the community.
In addition, Laguna Beach is Herzfeld’s hometown. His four year old daughter will be entering school next year.
“I’m looking forward to working in the school district where my daughter will go to school… I’m excited to be a part of that district and be able to maybe shape the culture and practices of that district,” said Herzfeld.
After Herzfeld’s departure, Assistant Principal of Curriculum, Kirk Kennedy, will be the interim principal. The Huntington Beach Union High School District may also be bringing in retirees to assist with other administrative functions if extra help is required. In the spring, the principal position will be opened to applicants nationwide.
Herzfeld is looking forward to a completely new challenge. He will go from leading the largest comprehensive school in Orange County, to the smallest school.
However, he will never let go of Fountain Valley High School’s professional and student culture.
“Never take for granted the qualities that we have at this school. Work to cultivate them…keep striving to realize that vision of maximizing learning for every student in a caring environment. We’re really a very special place,” said Herzfeld.
Good luck Mr. Herzfeld. Im sure you’ll make Laguna Beach High School just as proud as you’ve help make all of us proud “Barons for Life” here at FVHS.