San Rafael City Schools has selected two new elementary school principals for the 2023-24 cycle.
Jimmy Lopez, who brings 20 years of experience as a bilingual and bicultural educator, will take over as principal of Laurel Dell Elementary.
Jacob Hodgson, principal of Lafayette Elementary School in San Francisco for the past five years, will take over the lead position at Glenwood Elementary.
Lopez and Hodgson were both approved for their positions by the San Rafael Board of Education at their April 3 meeting. Both are expected to start operating on July 1.
“I am thrilled to be joining the San Rafael City Schools community,” said Lopez. “My main goal as Principal of Laurel Dell is to provide leadership that will facilitate a safe and respectful school environment, so that all children receive the best academic education possible.”
His annual salary will be $135,160.
Lopez is the assistant principal of ER Taylor Elementary School in the San Francisco Unified School District. He is also the school’s bilingual Spanish track leader as well as the culture and climate team.
Prior to joining San Francisco District in 2011, Lopez worked for the West Contra Costa Unified School District for 10 years as an elementary teacher.
Lopez holds a master’s degree in education from the Dominican University of California, San Rafael.
“I strongly believe that Mr. Lopez is the perfect leader for Laurel Dale,” said District Administrator Jim Hogebaum. “He believes in creating effective and stimulating learning environments, and is deeply committed to each student.”
Hodgson, who has more than two decades of teaching experience, said he was “honored to have been chosen as principal of Glenwood Elementary.”
“I am so excited to start my tenure in a wonderful community of cheerful learners, dedicated staff and supportive families,” he said.
His annual salary will be $162,587.
Prior to his position at Lafayette Elementary, Hodgson was principal of New Traditions School in San Francisco, principal of Bayshore Elementary School in Daly City, and assistant principal in Lafayette. Hodgson started out as a teacher in the Sacramento area.
Hodgson holds a master’s degree in Education Administration from San Francisco State University.
“Hodgson has developed an excellent reputation for leading his school communities with a clear student-centered vision,” said Hogeboom.
“Building strong school communities is one of its greatest strengths,” he said.