Farace, 55, worked as the principal of Bret Harte Middle School for seven years before she joined WGHS.

"I feel like I've left home and am coming home because I stayed at Bret Harte for such a long time, and now I am returning to the high school where I studied," said Farace, who graduated from WGHS in 1964.

She said she takes her responsibilities as a high school principal seriously because the decisions students make in high school significantly influence their future.

"I feel I need to give students the best education they can get so they will have a bright future," Farace said.

But the new principal added that she will not just focus on students' academic performance—she will encourage students to participate in sports and extracurricular activities and have a balanced life.

Farace, who has spent the summer acquainting herself with the campus and staff, recently received an encouraging note from former WGHS Principal Mickey Long, who was her mentor teacher in the district.

"She said she was going to watch me from the principals' gallery," Farace said. "I will have to work hard."


WGES welcomes its new principal

Dayle D'Anna is the new principal of Willow Glen Elementary School (WGES).

Her predecessor, Anita Sunseri, is now the principal of Terrell School.

D'Anna, 55, has worked for the San Jose Unified School District since 1971. She had been the principal of Lowell Elementary School for five years before she took last year off and traveled to 15 countries.

"The trip is a precious experience for me. I feel refreshed and rejuvenated," D'Anna said. "Now I am ready and eager to go back to work."

She said she feels lucky to work at WGES because Willow Glen is an active neighborhood and parents are very involved in their children's education.

"Since the school is well-organized, my priority is to become familiar with the campus and to work with staff and parents to find out what is needed," D'Anna said.

She said she will also work to enhance the school's computer lab and strengthen the reading and writing programs.

Five new teachers have also joined the elementary school's staff.