The bar has been raised at Paradise Valley Engineering Academy, where new principal Julie Page came aboard with credentials that include leading the top-scoring school in the state while working in Cupertino.
Page, who brings nearly a quarter-century of education experience as a teacher and administrator in local districts including Cupertino, Saratoga and Aptos, was out greeting families as they arrived on the LaCrosse Drive campus in southwest Morgan Hill for the Aug. 16 first day of school.
Along with Paradise Valley, it was opening day for Morgan Hill Unified School District’s 13 elementary, middle and high schools.
“I live in Morgan Hill, so this is my dream come true to get this opportunity,” said Page, an Aptos transplant who fell in love with the local community after moving here several years ago.
Page thinks Paradise Valley is the perfect match for her after coming from a “21st-century technology-focused school … This engineering focus is fabulous for me.”
With a strong background in Project Based Learning, Page—who is enjoying the view out to the fourth- and fifth-grade courtyard area from her principal’s office perch in the new administration building—foresees a continued integration of engineering and computer design into the existing curriculum.
Paradise Valley has 420 students, enrolled in grades K-5, and returned 17 teachers to the faculty.
Page, who replaces former principal Swati Dagar, said she will take input from her staff and the school community to see what areas may need improvement and others that should continue on their path.
“I think we need to have a collective goal, and then we can move forward,” Page said. “I’m eager to meet all the kids and families. This is a very exciting time. The kids are very hopeful for the new year, and so am I. We’re going to have a great year.”
The seasoned administrator comes in the midst of a $7 million campus upgrade project that has lingered into the start of school but is expected to be finished by the end of September. The school recently received a silver recognition from the California PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) Coalition for its intervention and support systems, according to Page.
“A school this size, you can have a personal connection with every child. It’s a perfect size, and I’m looking forward to that,” said Page, who encouraged parents to get involved with Project Cornerstone and the Home & School Club. “I really want to welcome parents onto campus.”
