Former Assistant Named McGaugh Principal

Judith Smith has been named principal of McGaugh Elementary School by Los Alamitos Unified School District trustees.

She replaces John Blaydes, who retires this month after serving as the school’s principal for 14 years.

Smith, who was assistant principal of McGaugh from 1992 to 1996, returns to the school after spending the last year as curriculum and staff development coordinator for Fullerton Elementary School District.

“Judy has outstanding qualifications for the position of principal in Los Al Unified,” Supt. Michael S. Miller said.

“Her background in education and her experience in instructional leadership meet the high standards that we have for our principals.”

David Hatton, the district’s assistant superintendent of personnel, said Smith was chosen for the position after the board completed a statewide search for candidates.

Smith received a master’s degree in reading education from Cal State Fullerton.

She began her career in education in 1965 at Montebello Unified School District, where she held positions including project director for compensatory education, staff development trainer, reading specialist and classroom teacher.

She left the Montebello district in 1992 to join Los Alamitos.

Smith plans to hold several meetings this summer to be reacquainted with parents and students before the school year begins in September.