Sun Valley Elementary Principal Leaving For Mill Valley Position

SAN RAFAEL, CA — The principal of Sun Valley Elementary School in San Rafael is stepping down. San Rafael City Schools recently announced that Julie Harris will be departing the district to become the student services director for the Mill Valley School District.

"With over 25 years in education, Julie's cohesive, systematic and intentional leadership cultivated an authentically united and a deeply connected school community," Superintendent Jim Hogeboom said. "A community that supports one another with generosity, compassion and joy."

Harris has served the students, staff and community of Sun Valley for 15 years, Hogeboom said. In 2016, Sun Valley was chosen as a National Blue Ribbon School, a highly coveted award that honors schools where students are achieving at high learning standards and are making notable improvements in closing the achievement gap.

"Under Julie's guidance and direction, and with the highly skilled and trained faculty and staff; the current systems and processes in place allow for scaffolding and support so all students can achieve their full potential and beyond," Hogeboom said. "While the classrooms are rich with rigor, innovation and engagement; the highly involved Parent Teacher Organization provides an array of enrichment programs to further sustain student emotional, social and academic growth."

Harris will continue her leadership role with Sun Valley through the end of this school year. She is slated to start her new position on July 1.

"We know she will find continued success in her new position in Mill Valley, and we will wish her all the best as she continues her educational journey and career," Hogeboom said.

The district will soon begin a search for Sun Valley's next leader. The district plans to meet with staff, parents and community partners for input and feedback.