With a new school year comes a new principal at St. Katharine Drexel Academy in El Cerrito.

Larissa Frost has taken on the position of leading the school which covers grades kindergarten through eight.

Frost has more than a decade of experience in the field of education, focusing on academic excellence, socio-emotional learning, and a safe and inclusive learning environment.

A San Diego native, she has worked in a number of educational roles, including being a special education teacher within San Diego Unified, a special education director at The Museum School, and as a vice principal /inclusion director at St. Columba Catholic School.

Mensajero de College Times recently caught up with Frost to talk about her new role and what things will look like under her leadership.

CTC: What attracted you to the principal job at SKDA?

Frost: Having been the vice principal and inclusion director at St Columba for the last two years and winning the inclusive school award this year I was impressed with SKDA having won the most inclusive school award for the two years prior. SKDA is one of only two schools in the diocese using Loyola Marymount University’s blended learning program to support students, which is very exciting.

CTC: For students, staff and parents at SKDA, what kind of leadership can they expect from you?

Frost: Academic achievement is something I am very passionate about. I believe every child has a right to high quality education. Additionally, I am committed to servant leadership and modeling the teachings of Christ on a daily basis.

CTC: With all the distractions students can face in today’s world, how best to educate them with the time your staff has available with them?

Frost: We will maximize our students’ learning by use of our blended learning program as well as specific scheduling to address faith, STEM, and socio-emotional learning.

CTC: Any notable changes at SKDA this coming school year as far as curriculum, extracurricular activities etc.?

Frost: In alignment with our STEM mission and blended learning program, this year we will be integrating our math and science courses so that students can have more of a working understanding in how these two fields intersect. We plan on maximizing our STEM labs to offer more exciting hands-on learning experiences to model this fusion of curriculums. 

CTC: When is the first day of classes and what message would you have for students, staff and parents once the new school year kicks off?

Frost: The first day of school will be Aug. 21. The first three days will be minimum days to allow for students to transition back into a routine of attending school and for teachers to debrief and collaborate after school. We are so excited to see all our students and families! We pray that as our families return to school the Lord watches over them and prepares the way and opens the doors that lead to His grace.

For more information on St. Katharine Drexel Academy, visit skda-sd.org/.