As expected by everyone who knows her well, Karin Mellina has been named as the new permanent principal of Coronado Middle School effective January 1, 2016. Mellina’s new post is as a result of the current principal Jay Marquand accepting another position with the Sweetwater Union School District. Currently the school’s Assistant Principal, Mellina plans to make the transition smooth for both students and teachers.
“I’ve been so fortunate to work as the CMS Assistant Principal for the past seven years,’ said Mellina. “I’m thrilled to continue my leadership work with the students, staff, parents, and community members of Coronado.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jeff Felix made the announcement Wednesday afternoon to the faculty and staff of the middle school. Felix said his decision was an easy one.
“Karin’s leadership abilities haven’t even reached their great potential,” said Felix. “She has shown me many times how effective and strong she can be with all members of her school community. They love her and have shown their confidence in her in many ways over the past two weeks with an outpouring of support via emails, phone calls, face to face, and even in a survey sent out by the Association of Coronado Teachers.”
While no changes are being planned for the middle school under Mellina’s leadership, she will need to select a temporary Assistant Principal very soon. The permanent Assistant Principal will be selected in late spring using the usual posting and hiring procedures of the district.
Karin Mellina is a dedicated educator with a passion for learning and a belief that every child deserves the opportunity to fulfill their hopes and dreams. Born in New York and raised in New Jersey, Karin graduated from Westfield High School and moved to Boston to study psychology at Northeastern University.
She always knew that she wanted to pursue a career in a helping profession where she could make a positive impact on kids’ lives. After completing her undergraduate coursework, she received her B.A. in Psychology and immediately began her graduate studies at Seton Hall University. During her counseling internship, Karin worked in multiple schools and classrooms providing student support and ultimately fell in love with the idea of teaching. Upon completion of her Master’s in Counseling Psychology, Karin went on to obtain her teaching certification and an M.A. in Education.
After ten years of teaching elementary and middle school, Karin’s mentors encouraged her to pursue administration. Coronado Middle School has appreciated the hard work and dedication she has given them as Assistant Principal for the past eight years.
Karin enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She’s an avid traveler and enjoys visiting and learning about other countries customs and history. When Karin is not working, she can be found at the beach, running, cooking, or doing yoga.
“I want to inspire my students to be the best version of themselves and recognize that perseverance and practice leads to progress. My mission is to foster confidence within each of my students and empower them to be critical thinkers and life-long learners.”
Source: Coronado Unified School District
