Medea Creek administrator named Camarillo school principal

Jay GreenlingeJay Greenlinger is leaving Medea Creek Middle School in Oak Park to become principal of La Mariposa Elementary School in Camarillo.

Greenlinger has served as Medea's dean of students since August 2007.

Greenlinger joined Oak Park Unified School District in 2003, teaching first third and then fifth grade at Brookside Elementary School. He served as Medea Creek's summer school principal and as district webmaster. He assisted with technology upgrades and oversaw the Safe Student Ambassadors program. Superintendent Tony Knight called him "an amazing member of our team."

The Oak Park district is now reviewing candidates to replace Greenlinger.

"I think that Jay will be remembered in Oak Park mostly for his kind manner with the students and deep concern for the needs of each one," Knight said.

La Mariposa has a student body of 650 kindergartners through fifth-graders.

Greenlinger was chosen from 43 candidates who applied for three positions in the Pleasant Valley Unified School District, according to Superintendent Luis Villegas.

Greenlinger's hiring is part of a series of personnel changes in Camarillo schools.

Greenlinger replaces Pam Gonzalez, who has been promoted to principal at Las Colinas Middle School. Gonzalez replaces Pat FitzGerald, who retired.

Another retirement resulting in leadership changes is that of Los Primeros School of Science and Arts Principal Esther Winkelman, a former principal of Brookside Elementary in Oak Park. Dos Caminos Elementary Principal RaeAnn Michael will replace Winkelman. Erica Williams, of the Simi Valley Unified School District, will replace Michael as the Dos Caminos principal.

James Martinez of Newbury Park High School will become principal of Las Posas Elementary School, replacing Julie AntillaGarza who was dismissed by the district in May. She has been hired as executive director of the new MATES charter school in Thousand Oaks.

Greenlinger said it was a difficult decision for him to leave Oak Park.

"There are dozens of wonderful people who have taught and encouraged me, all while holding me to a high standard," Greenlinger said. "I will miss the students, teachers, parents, office staff, counselors and everyone else who contributed to my personal and professional growth."

Greenlinger, a Newbury Park resident, said he looked forward to having "a positive impact on many students, teachers and families."

Greenlinger's wife gave birth to twins in January, making his move to the new role "perfect timing," he said.

"I know that I will draw from my experiences here as I guide La Mariposa Elementary on a path toward excellence," Greenlinger said.