Rio School District names two new principals

The Rio School District opened the 2007-08 school year with the addition of two new principals. Jeffery Turner is at Rio Lindo Elementary and Shirley Shaw is at Rio Vista Middle School.

Both are experienced administrators and have experience working in the classroom.

"Jeffery and Shirley are dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing the best education possible to their students, building a strong collegial team and addressing needs of the 'whole child' by working closely with families and supporting the faculty," said Sherianne Cotterell, Rio School District superintendent. "We are proud to have them as part of the district's team."

Turner received his master's degree in educational leadership from Northwest Nazarene College in Idaho and his bachelor's degree in elementary education from Idaho State University.

He taught elementary school and was principal in the Morongo Unified School District, 29 Palms.

As an educator, he has implemented strategies to improve student achievement and to foster parent and community participation.

Shaw received her doctorate from UC Santa Barbara and her master's degree in instructional technology from Cal State San Bernardino. She has a bachelor's degree in biology and has also studied Spanish, mathematics, science and liberal arts.

Shaw has worked as a junior high school teacher, assistant principal at Newbury Park and Carpinteria high schools.