(Aug 13, 2024)
Brett grew up in South Torrance and lives in the Hollywood Riviera with his wife and 3 children (who attended our meeting to supervise him), and 2 dogs (who did not attend). He has an MA degree in Educational Administration from CSU Dominguez Hills. He began teaching in the PVP Unified School District in 2000, became an administrator in 2004, and was appointed principal of Rancho Del Mar and the Palos Verdes Distance Learning Academy in 2022.
Rancho Del Mar is a Continuation High School at 38 Crest Rd West in Rolling Hills. The school provides an alternative educational setting and an opportunity to earn credits toward graduation for 16-18-year-olds who are unsuccessful in the traditional high school setting. Students are accepted at any time during the year. Most enrollees have had poor attendance and/or credit deficiencies, but some just need a smaller setting, an individualized program, or to graduate early. Graduation requirements are identical to those of conventional high schools. It has about 75 students with a student-teacher ratio less than 15:1. The Palos Verdes Distance Learning Academy has about 60 students.
Rancho Del Mar has a non-competitive, no-fail atmosphere which is less threatening than a traditional high school. Students are ethnically diverse, including typical students, special needs, and English language learners. It customizes its programs for each student’s capabilities with comprehensive support for them to overcome personal difficulties and develop well-rounded academic and personal success. A counselor meets with each student at the beginning, and periodically as needed, to discuss the student’s goals and plans. The counselor reviews the student’s records, previous grades and assessment data, and works with the teachers to ascertain proper placement. Its safety plan includes policies on child abuse, sexual harassment, bullying, and reporting unsafe events or individuals. The school is supported by the students’ families and community, including the Peninsula Education Foundation (PEF).