Superintendent's Message

Summer break is a time for our students and families to relax and recharge, and we hope everyone has had a chance to catch up and unwind. At Whittier Union, we’ve been busy preparing for the 2026-27 school year, which is right around the corner with the First Day of School on Wednesday, August 12.

 

Whittier Union staff will be the first to arrive, gathering for their traditional Day One event on Monday, August 10. Then come our newest students, the Class of 2030, for Freshman First Day on Tuesday, August 11, followed by our returning students, including this year’s distinguished Class of 2027, who are sure to make the First Day of School a memorable one.

 

We are proud to announce that two experienced Whittier Union administrators are taking on new leadership positions as we start the school year.

 

Former Director of Business Services Steven Rodriguez will now lead the United Sierra Education Center as principal, which includes Frontier High School, Sierra Vista High School, the Whittier Union Adult School, and our Adult Transition Program. Mr. Rodriguez brings a wealth of experience, a passion for student success, and a commitment to supporting Whittier students. We also welcome Dr. Sam Sanford as La Serna High School’s new interim principal. Formerly La Serna’s assistant principal, Dr. Sanford is well-versed in Lancer spirit and eager for the new year to begin. We wish them all the best!

 

Finally, I’d like to give a big shout-out to our amazing student-athletes and musicians, who found time over the summer to stay sharp by practicing, conditioning, and bonding at summer scrimmages and band camps. We can’t wait to see our talented students in action at sporting events and festivals throughout the school year.

 

We are looking forward to a school year that will bring new ideas, perspectives, and energy to the District. We know that the 2026-27 school year will challenge our students to achieve greatness, while our administrators, faculty, and staff continue to do Whatever It Takes to prepare them for college, career, and beyond.