Dear Del Cerro Community,

It is with great honor and enthusiasm that I introduce myself as your newly appointed principal. I have heard so many wonderful things about the students, staff, and broader community and look forward to the future days and weeks of getting to know all about the great programs, systems and people that make Del Cerro Elementary the stellar school that it is.

Prior to my appointment as principal, I was in my sixth year working as an Assistant Principal in Tustin Unified. During my twenty years as an educator, I have worked as an English Language Arts Teacher on Special Assignment and an English teacher. I have had the privilege to work with grades K-12 in different capacities and believe this experience provides me a vast knowledge of the progression of kindergarten through twelfth grade instructionally, behaviorally and socio emotionally.

I grew up in Pico Rivera, California and attended the University of California at Irvine, majoring in English and minoring in Education. I received my teaching credential at Whittier College and received my Masters of Education in Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment at Walden University. I am passionate about ensuring all students have exposure to rigorous, engaging instruction and come to school each day feeling safe, valued and loved. In addition, because I was in the classroom for 14 years, I have tremendous respect for our teachers and classified staff and am very excited about supporting their efforts as they are integral to our students’ success.

My family and I, which includes two biological children, four step-children, and our Goldendoodle, enjoy traveling, hiking, sports and movie nights. Having children at all levels of school, including high, middle and elementary helps me understand the value of parent involvement and community outreach.

I can assure you that you will find me to be a collaborative, welcoming and passionate principal that cares deeply about the school’s safety and success. I look forward to getting to know our community, and most importantly the scholars entering our gates each day. Our school will shine because of your creative, kind and imaginative minds. I cannot wait to see each of you flourish this school year!

With much excitement,

Dawn Lam
Principal