New Principal Picked for Cunha Intermediate

The Cabrillo Unified School District (CUSD) selected a finalist for the open principal position at Manuel F. Cunha Intermediate School.

Ladislao Lopez, a Salinas Union High School District educator, is expected for appointment to the position after the Cabrillo Unified School District Governing Board approves the recommendation.

"Mr. Lopez has a broad depth of secondary school experience that includes administrative, teaching, and guidance," said CUSD superintendent Tony Roehrick. "He has consistently demonstrated throughout his career to be a strong advocate for programs that serve the broad needs of all groups of students, including ensuring that opportunities to challenge our most gifted and talented students are in place. Finally, Mr. Lopez has proven he is skilled at working collaboratively with teachers, support staff, and parents in order to build consensus on any initiative.""

Lopez worked as an assistant principal at Salinas High School. He also served as a counselor at the middle school level and taught a number of high school courses including economics and social studies at North Monterey County High School.

Looking forward to relocating to the area and becoming an integral part of the Cunha community, Lopez stated in a prepared press release from the Cabrillo Unified School District,  “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to serve the students and the community of Half Moon Bay, and I look forward to an exciting school year."

A group of parents, teachers, classified staff, and administrators chose a slate of six candidates to interview. The committee selected two finalists for the district administrative team to interview and determine the best candidate. Besides oral interviews, an extensive review of past employment histories for all candidates was performed.

As part of the selection process, a group of Cunha parents and employees met to provide their input into what they were looking for in their next principal. Among the key characteristics was the ability to maintain the key initiatives the school has in place. In addition, staff was interested in attracting candidates that could connect well with students and parents.

At Salinas High, Lopez was successful in supporting the academic growth of all students. While specific initiatives were aimed at low performing students, he also made certain that the needs of high performing students were addressed.

“All students can achieve academic success,” he said, “and it is our duty to ensure that it happens, whatever it takes.”

— Additional reporting by Christa Bigue

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