The search for a new principal at Patrick Henry High School had been ongoing for months ever since Michelle Irwin announced early last summer she was stepping down from that role.

Irwin left the principal post at Henry to take a position as a Middle School Area Superintendent for the San Diego Unified School District. Since then, the school has had interim people filling the all-important role.

That is until now.

In a letter sent out this week to PHHS staff, students and families, the school has a new principal coming aboard.

Sandra White, who has worked at Valhalla High School since 2006, will be taking over the principal position at her new school.

The following is the letter sent out to the PHHS family:

13 de febrero de 2024

Dear Patrick Henry High School Staff, Students, and Families,

It is with great honor and excitement that I share with you the appointment of Ms. Sandra White to the position of Principal at Henry High School. Ms. White is coming to the Henry community from Valhalla High School, where she has worked since 2006 as a school counselor and most recently as an assistant principal. She is enthusiastic to continue her work at the high school level, serving as principal, and looks forward to immersing herself in the Patriot community.

Ms. White is a dedicated educator with 23 years of experience as a mathematics teacher, school counselor and assistant principal. In addition she has taught as an Adjunct Professor at San Diego State University and Cuyamaca College. Ms. White is a collaborative leader who brings together various interests to develop a shared vision. She believes that a school cannot be successful without an involved staff, community and parents. Ms. White has extensive experience working with diverse student groups and works to ensure that all students feel connected and represented at school. She prioritizes instruction and ensures students have access to rigorous curriculum and instruction. Ms. White understands the needs of the students of San Diego and is committed to supporting the Henry community. Through her considerable experience coupled with her collaborative leadership approach, she will provide valuable insights and strategies for the school’s continued growth and improvement.

On a personal note, Ms. White was born and raised in the beautiful state of Alabama. She attended the illustrious Tuskegee University earning a Bachelors in Management Science. Her education continued with her earning two Master’s degrees and currently a doctoral student at National University. She is the seventh of eight children, six older brothers and one younger sister and auntie to many. She was blessed with two beautiful children, a handsome son (Christian) and a gorgeous daughter (Zion) who both reside here in San Diego.

We are working with Ms. White and Human Resources to determine when she will start. I sincerely thank everyone who participated and supported this hiring process by helping develop the site criteria and/or sitting on the Community Interview Panel. Together, we found the perfect match for Patrick Henry High School!

Sincerely,
Erin Richison, Ed.D.
Senior Executive Director, Office of Graduation and Area Superintendent, High Schools

(Courtesy image)