In a recent government meeting, the Bear Valley Unified School District celebrated the approval of three new staff members, highlighting a strong connection to the community and the district's commitment to education.
The first appointment was Christian Madel, a district receptionist and Bear Valley Unified graduate. Known for his extensive volunteer work at Baldwin Lane, Madel brings a background in hospitality and customer service to his new role. His reputation as a beloved community member was emphasized, with officials expressing excitement about his contributions to the district office.
Next, the board welcomed Riley Jo Shutter as a teacher at the middle school. Shutter, who has deep roots in the district, attended Bear Valley Unified from kindergarten through high school and comes from a family of educators. Her impressive credentials include two black belts, experience as a CIF wrestler, and recognition as Miss Big Bear scholarship pageant queen. Shutter is also pursuing fluency in Spanish and holds a bachelor's degree from Whitman College. Her enthusiasm and readiness to tackle the challenges of middle school education were noted as key attributes.
Lastly, Scott Heard was appointed as a temporary assistant principal at Baldwin Lane. A veteran educator who began his career in 1983, Heard previously served as a Spanish teacher and later as an assistant principal at Vincra High School before retiring in 2020. His return to the district is seen as a valuable asset, as he will help establish supportive systems for staff and administration at Baldwin Lane.
The meeting underscored the district's pride in hiring local graduates and experienced educators, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a strong educational environment.