We are excited to share several important school leadership updates, effective July 1, 2025.
Samantha Navarro has been selected as Principal of Da Vinci Design, succeeding Russell Stoll, who will be stepping down.
Samantha brings 25 years of experience in public education as a teacher, coach, and school leader with a strong commitment to student-centered learning and equity-driven leadership. Her career has included teaching social studies, coaching high school tennis, and most recently, serving as Principal of New Millennium Secondary School for the past decade. Under her leadership, New Millennium became a close-knit community known for its academic rigor, meaningful relationships, and commitment to student growth.
Samantha holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science with an Emphasis in Secondary Education and a Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction from Biola University, as well as a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Arizona. She brings to Da Vinci Design a passion for authentic learning, inclusive school culture, and the empowerment of both students and staff.
Joining Samantha is Korina Barefield, stepping into the role of Assistant Principal. Korina, formerly the Dean of Student Success and Culture, is widely recognized for her unwavering commitment to student support, her expertise in MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), and her ability to foster a vibrant, inclusive school culture. We are thrilled to welcome her into this new leadership role.
Kirk Takeyama will bring a wealth of expertise in operational excellence to his new role as Assistant Principal at Da Vinci Communications.
Please join us in congratulating Samantha, Korina and Kirk on their new roles. We look forward to the incredible work ahead under their leadership.
We also extend our deepest gratitude to Principal Russell Stoll for his outstanding leadership at Da Vinci Design. Most recently, he led the successful WASC re-accreditation process, with Da Vinci Design earning the highest level—a full six-year accreditation. We wish Russell all the best in his next chapter.