Dear Del Cerro Community,

It is with great excitement that I welcome you all back for another incredible school year at Del Cerro Elementary! Reflecting on my first year as your principal, I am filled with gratitude and admiration for the wonderful students, dedicated staff, and supportive community that make our school so special. This year, I am thrilled to announce our new theme: "Dolphins, we are so happy to SEA you."

Our primary goals this year are to improve student attendance and engagement. We aim to create a school environment where every student is excited to come to school each day, eager to learn, and enthusiastic about seeing their teachers, staff, and peers. When students feel connected and engaged, they thrive both academically and personally.

A bit about me for those who are new: Before joining Del Cerro, I served as an Assistant Principal in Tustin Unified for six years, and have over twenty years of experience as an educator, including roles as an English Language Arts Teacher on Special Assignment and an English teacher. I grew up in Pico Rivera, California, attended the University of California at Irvine, and received my teaching credential from Whittier College and a Masters of Education from Walden University. My family, which includes two biological children, four step-children, and our Goldendoodle, enjoys traveling, hiking, sports, and movie nights.

I am passionate about ensuring all students have access to rigorous and engaging instruction and feel safe, valued, and loved at school. Having been a classroom teacher for 14 years, I have immense respect for our teachers and staff and am dedicated to supporting their efforts as they are crucial to our students’ success.

I am confident that this year will be one of growth, achievement, and joy for all of us. Let’s dive into this school year with enthusiasm and make every day a great day to be a Dolphin!

With much excitement,

Dawn Lam
Principal, Del Cerro Elementary