Paramount, CA — May 15, 2025 — At its May 14 meeting, the Paramount Unified School District (PUSD) Governing Board approved the appointment of six new administrators who will serve in key leadership roles across the District. These individuals bring a wide range of experiences, talents, and leadership strengths that align with the District’s commitment to student empowerment, academic excellence and student-centered learning. Their diverse backgrounds and shared focus on student success will enrich our schools and foster continued growth for all learners.
Dr. Amanda Bentley has been named Director of Secondary Education. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Dr. Bentley began as an English teacher in 2005, serving at Southwest High School and Montclair High School. She moved into administration in 2010 and has served as an Athletic Director in Fontana and an Assistant Principal at Saddleback Valley and Fullerton. For the past three years, Dr. Bentley has served as Principal at Hillcrest High School in Alvord Unified School District.
Dr. Bentley is widely regarded as a distinguished educator and dynamic leader marked by innovation, adaptability, and a calm, focused approach. Her commitment to excellence, strategic mindset, and collaborative leadership will be instrumental in guiding our secondary programs.
Mr. Nicholas Garcia will join PUSD as Principal of Zamboni Middle School. Mr. Garcia began his career as a social studies teacher at Cathedral High School and later at Green Dot Public Schools. He transitioned into administration in 2016 as an Assistant Principal at Giano Intermediate School in Rowland Unified and, for the past two years, served as Principal at Sierra Vista Middle School in Covina-Valley Unified School District.
Known for his inspiring and inclusive leadership style, Mr. Garcia is a respected educator who builds strong, meaningful relationships with students, staff, and the community. He approaches challenges with calm determination and strategic thinking, and he is admired for his adaptability, attention to detail, and ability to foster a positive school culture.
Mr. Andrew Estrada has been appointed as Principal of Mokler Elementary School. Mr. Estrada began his career as a social studies teacher at Redondo Beach Unified and later served as a Title I Teacher on Special Assignment. He went on to serve as Assistant Principal and Principal at both the elementary and middle school levels since 2018, with his last three years at Adams Middle School.
Mr. Estrada is a respected leader known for building strong relationships with all stakeholders. He listens attentively, values diverse perspectives, and leads with compassion and clarity. His student-centered vision, focus on collaboration, and operational effectiveness will build on the continued success at Mokler Elementary.
Ms. Anna Yasuhara will serve as Principal of Gaines Elementary School. Ms. Yasuhara began her career as a 7th grade teacher in Illinois and joined Paramount USD in 2005 as a Foster Youth Mentor and has since served the district in numerous roles—teacher at Paramount High School, Girls’ Athletic Director, and Assistant Principal. Most recently, she served as Assistant Principal at Paramount Park Middle School for five years.
Ms. Yasuhara is a compassionate, ethical, and highly skilled leader. Her dedication to student learning, supportive leadership style, and collaborative spirit will serve the Gaines community well.
Mr. Binal Patel will serve as Assistant Principal of Zamboni Middle School. Since 2018, Mr. Patel has taught 8th grade Integrated Science and PLTW courses, including Medical Detectives and Green Architecture, at Leona Jackson Middle School.
Mr. Patel is known for his steady leadership, collaborative approach, and unwavering focus on student achievement. His professionalism, judgment, and classroom management expertise position him for success in his new role.
Ms. Kristine Pinel has been appointed Assistant Principal of Jackson Middle School. Ms. Pinel joined Jackson in 2016 and served as the school’s Science Instructional Coach from 2018 to 2024 and currently teaches 7th/8th grade Integrated Science and PLTW: Automation and Robotics.
Ms. Pinel is recognized for her professionalism, empathy, and instructional expertise. Her strong relationships with staff and families and her commitment to instructional improvement make her a natural fit for this leadership role.
The newly appointed administrators will begin their roles on July 1, 2025. Transition planning is underway to ensure a smooth start for the upcoming school year. We wish our retiring administrators all the very best and appreciate their service to the District.