SAN DIEGO, CA – The Poway Unified School District (PUSD) is pleased to announce eight new leadership appointments for the 2025-2026 school year, including a new executive director and seven new school principals. These leaders were selected through a rigorous recruitment and selection process, and each brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to student success, and a vision for innovation and excellence across our schools.
New Executive Director Appointment
Julie Goldberg has been appointed Executive Director of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) within the Learning Support Services Division. Ms. Goldberg currently serves as Principal of Pomerado Elementary School and previously served as Director of Assessment and Accountability in the San Dieguito Union High School District. She is known for her innovative approach to systems design, data analytics, and continuous improvement.
New Principal Appointments
Dr. Jonathan Penuliar has been named the new Principal of Poway High School. He most recently served as Principal of Jefferson Middle School in the Oceanside Unified School District and brings over a decade of experience as both a teacher and administrator. Dr. Penuliar holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from UC San Diego and CSU San Marcos and is recognized for his strategic leadership and commitment to academic excellence.
Angela Pimentel has been selected as Principal of Meadowbrook Middle School. She currently serves as Assistant Principal at Rancho Bernardo High School and brings nearly eight years of administrative experience and over ten years in education. Ms. Pimentel is known for her innovative leadership and fostering a culture of trust through collaboration and transparency.
Kirsten Williams will serve as the new Principal of Highland Ranch Elementary School. With nearly 30 years of experience in education, she most recently served as Assistant Principal at Hillsdale Middle School in the Cajon Valley Union School District. Mrs. Williams has served in both teaching and administrative roles, combining expertise and compassion to enhance student learning.
Matt Hunt has been appointed Principal of Midland Elementary School. He currently serves as Assistant Principal at Mt. Carmel High School and brings 24 years of experience in education, including work in school counseling, special education, and administration. Mr. Hunt’s student-centered perspective and expertise in support services make him a strong fit for this role.
Jennie Ganesan has been named Principal of Del Sur Elementary School. She currently serves as Assistant Principal at Del Norte High School and has nearly a decade of experience as both a teacher and administrator. Ms. Ganesan is a skilled collaborator and a champion for student voice while effectively engaging the community for student success.
Eric Takeshita will assume the role of Principal at Rolling Hills Elementary School. A proven leader within PUSD, he currently serves as Principal at Del Sur Elementary School. Mr. Takeshita is known for his relational leadership style and his dedication to fostering inclusive, high-achieving school cultures.
Sidia Martinez has been selected as Principal of Pomerado Elementary School. She currently serves as Principal of Midland Elementary School and brings continued leadership within the district. Ms. Martinez’s collaborative and student-focused leadership style makes her an ideal fit for Pomerado.