By: Brienna Burr and Donya Hassanshahi
On Friday, September 29th, the Redwood principal, Dr. Amanda Richard, departed from Rangers to carry out new endeavors.
Upon her departure, she addressed a note to the Redwood community about her time as a Ranger, stating:
Dear Rangers,
It has been my true privilege to serve as principal of Redwood High School. I can honestly say that my time here has been full of blessings. I have grown immensely, and as a team, we have built deep relationships, and we have learned alongside each other. One of the biggest blessing has been being a part of a culture that is talked about throughout Visalia and the surrounding communities. When people hear about Redwood, the reputation is full of strength, care, innovation, and SPIRIT.
After much thought, personal reflection, and professional guidance, I have accepted the position of Administrator II, Director of Human Resources at the Tulare County Office of Education. It is a position that aligns deeply with my beliefs and strengths and is a great forward step in a career that is built on a love for learning and seeing kids grow. Saying goodbye is never easy; however, I have full confidence in the shared mission and vision we have established here at Redwood. I have been humbled by how the Redwood community has embraced me as a leader, and I am so grateful for the people and ideas you have entrusted in my care.
This past year, we have accomplished a full 6 year WASC accreditation, reopened the gym, expanded our Agricultural pathways, added an administrator and four teaching positions to the RHS team, and we have worked to continue to expand the strong culture that Redwood is known for. I am moving on, but the shared Redwood High School culture is, and will continue to be strong. Redwood High School and Visalia Unified School District have been an excellent place to work for the last 20 years!
As I step out of this role, I will take RANGER PRIDE and SPIRIT with me, and I will close by saying..…. “Once a RANGER….Always a RANGER!”
Dr. Amanda Richard
The impact that Richard had on Redwood students, families, and faculty is appreciated and will continue to be upheld.
For the remainder of the 2023-2024 school year, Dr. Gridiron will serve as Interim Principal.
Donya Hassanshahi
Donya Hassanshahi, '24 is a third year journalism student writing for the Redwood Gigantea. She seeks interest in the Humans of Redwood, hoping to inspire the Redwood community with her writing. You can reach her by her email at donya.hassanshahi@gmail.com.
Brienna Burr
Brienna Burr, '24, is in her third year of writing and editing for the Redwood Gigantea. Outside of journalism, Brienna is a part of Dance Force, CSF, Assisteens Visalia and International Dance. You can reach her by email at brien.bu9038@vusd.us
Tags: Brienna Burr, Donya Hassanshahi, news, rangers, Redwood, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, redwood journalism, redwood rangers, rhs, visalia ca
