At the start of most school years, changes within the faculty and the administration are expected.
One of this year’s biggest changes affected the Upper School administrative team.
Mr. Tyler Hodges, previously the Dean of Students, has now accepted the role of Director of Upper School Academics and Student Life.
Along with Hodges’ increased responsibility on campus, Ms. Dana Martin has stepped up to assist Hodges as the Upper School Assistant, while continuing her role as  Middle School Assistant.
The most significant change this year for Mr. Hodges will be the workload that comes with his new role.
“My workload has increased tremendously, but that’s good because I am now in a position where if I see something that needs to be fixed, I can fix it.”
He added, “with an increased role, you always have increased expectations, increased responsibility, and increased pressure, but everybody has been really great.”
Laguna also welcomes new chief financial officer, Mr. Michael Neff, and Ms. Marie Gensler, headmaster Mr. Paul Slocombe’s new assistant.
Mr. Hodges has high expectations for what he wants accomplish in the 2011-2012 school year.
“I want to make Laguna Blanca a place where kids want to come and spend their time. I want Laguna Blanca to be a place where the students can trust and turn to the faculty,” Mr. Hodges continued.
He also emphasized how efficiency will be a focus this year, “ if we are going to do something, I want it to get done and have a points so we can move onto the next great thing.”
With the school year now in full swing, the new administrative staff has the opportunity to work together with the returning staff. They will collaborate to turn their goal of creating a productive, engaging, enjoyable  school year of learning for the students into a reality.