Temecula Elementary School Principal Tapped For New Post

TEMECULA, CA — Temecula Elementary School Principal Sandra McKay is leaving her post to develop an independent-learning school in the district, it was announced Monday.

McKay was selected to lead the Temecula Valley Unified School District's new Home INstead Online School that opens in the fall.

McKay will build the independent-learning-based school from the ground up using her "visionary instructional leadership and skillset in developing programs to serve diverse populations of students and needs," according to a district statement.

“Mrs. McKay is the perfect person to create, orchestrate, and build TVUSD’s K-8 Home INstead School," said TVUSD Superintendent Dr. Jodi McClay. "She is dynamic, energetic, and passionate about ensuring all students succeed. I know she will focus on building an innovative program that meets every student’s academic, social, and emotional needs while also engaging families as partners.”

McKay’s appointment is pending TVUSD Governing Board approval on March 2.

McKay, along with TES Assistant Principal Darla Underwood, will continue to support the TES staff, students, and families through the transition to reopen the campus and the selection of a new TES principal.

McKay has served TVUSD since 2002 as an assistant principal, principal, and principal on special assignment. For the last 11 years, she has served as TES principal.

"With support from her team of teachers and staff, she has helped to create model instructional programs serving one of TVUSD’s most diverse campuses," a statement from the district read.

McKay sent a message to TES families on Monday, expressing her gratitude to the school's community.

“I am so very thankful for my years here at Temecula Elementary," she said. "I have treasured the joy our students, staff, and families bring to our school each and every day. I appreciate the kindness and support you have shown along the way. I have grown as an educator through serving with all of you. Thank you for the opportunity to be your principal and for sharing these years with me. My heart will always hold a special place for the wonderful people I have come to know at TES. I will forever be grateful for my time as a Tiger!!”