SAN DIMAS/ LA VERNE– The teaching staff of La Verne Heights Elementary School packed into a full Bonita Unified Board of Education meeting on May 1 to welcome Dr. Jaymi Abusham as the new principal for La Verne Heights Elementary School.

“I am very excited to work in a school community that is so closely aligned with my values. I am passionate about supporting students to thrive in an environment of dignity and high expectations. I believe in supporting school personnel to carry out this very important work,” said Abusham, an assistant professor and program chair for educational leadership at the University of La Verne. “The resonance between my beliefs and Bonita Unified’s priorities seems to be the perfect match to make great things happen for students.”

Abusham will assume the position on July 1, bringing with her more than 24 years of educational experience. Her prior positions include elementary school principal, teacher and reading specialist. She earned an educational doctorate and a Master of Science from California State University, Fullerton and holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Youngstown State University.

Bonita Unified’s core values include equity, which has been a central focus of Abusham’s professional work. Her research in educational leadership and social justice was recently featured in a presentation at the Education Law Association’s 64th annual Conference in Cleveland, Ohio.

“Dr. Abusham is a great match for our District, and we are thrilled she is joining our team,” Superintendent Carl J. Coles said. “Her depth of experience and passion for education will be an incredible boost for our team at La Verne Heights and across the District.”

When she isn’t in a classroom or collaborating with other educators, Dr. Abusham can be found hiking, biking, enjoying the outdoors with her husband and two dogs and appreciating her newborn grandson, Lexington.

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BONITA_PRINCIPAL_1: Dr. Jaymi Abusham will become principal of La Verne Heights Elementary School in July.