Dear IUSD Community, We are pleased to announce that Dr. Michele Ogden has been named as the new Principal of Santiago Hills Elementary School. Dr. Ogden was selected from a talented candidate pool as the best fit for Santiago Hills. The selection process included staff and community input and participation. Dr. Ogden is an experienced Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) leader. Most recently, she spearheaded curriculum and instruction initiatives in math and science district-wide. She was an elementary teacher with experience in grades 1-4, spending seven years at Vista Verde. Her official start date is July 1, 2016. Dr. Ogden brings a student-centered learning approach to her work and is familiar with the Santiago Hills school community and IUSD’s culture of excellence. She is committed to fostering innovation through collaboration with teachers, staff, students and families. Dr. Ogden is excited to work with the Santiago Hills' students, staff and community. She will begin her transition to Santiago Hills over the coming weeks and will meet with Mr. Pace to ensure a smooth start to the next school year. She cannot wait to meet with students, staff, and the parent community. “I look forward to becoming an active member of the Santiago Hills family and sharing the energy, excitement, laughs and day-to-day opportunities that come our way,” said Dr. Ogden. She lives in Aliso Viejo with her husband, son and daughter. After seven years of cheering for her kids in their running pursuits, she has recently become a runner, completing three 5Ks and two half marathons in 2016 alone. Please join IUSD in congratulating Dr. Ogden and in welcoming her to Santiago Hills. Sincerely, 
