On campus Thursdays and some Tuesdays & Wednesdays
 

I am David H. Perez-Esquenazi, and I am the new Castlebay Lane Assistant Principal. My career working with children began at age 16, when I became a teacher’s assistant in L.A.U.S.D. After earning two undergraduate degrees from UCLA - one in History and one in Economics/Accounting - I realized that my real calling was working with children. To me, there is no greater satisfaction than to help children each day improve their lives academically, socially, and emotionally. I obtained my teaching credential through L.A.U.S.D. in 1996, and then, while working as a full-time teacher, earned a Master’s Degree in School Administration from Cal State University Los Angeles in 2000.

After teaching in an L.A.U.S.D. elementary school for eight years, I became an Attendance and Motivation Dean in 2001 and a School Coordinator in 2003. I have held the position of Assistant Principal, Elementary Instructional Specialist (APEIS) since 2006.

When I’m not working, I play baseball and softball in local adult park leagues. I also am a salsa performer and Latin dancer. Given the recent birth of my son Joseph, however, being a dad is my new favorite pastime.

While in prior years each elementary school had its own APEIS, recent budget issues has resulted in APEIS, including me, having to split their time between two or three schools. Additionally, L.A.U.S.D. has mandated that APEIS make special education their top priority. Thus, my main focus at Castlebay Lane School will be to coordinate and monitor the IEP (Individual Education Plan) process, services, and instruction provided to eligible students with disabilities. Nevertheless, I will strive each day to ensure that all students are provided with a safe and positive learning environment.

I am very happy to be working at Castlebay Lane Elementary and am looking forward to a great school year.

Teaching Staff Stability