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Civic Engagement Initiatives on Campus

Civic Engagement Initiatives on Campus
PRS Academics

Over the last week, Pacific Ridge School has played host to several political figures discussing a range of topics. Last Thursday, City of Carlsbad Mayor Ketih Blackburn, City of Encinitas Mayor Tony Kranz, City of San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones, and City of Oceanside Mayor Esther Sanchez participated in a Mayors' Forum on housing and homelessness. Earlier this week congressional candidate Matt Gunderson (CA-49) spoke to upper school students about his policies and what he hopes to achieve if elected. These programs coincide with the election season and are connected to our students' civics education and engagement initiatives. More local electees, candidates, and officials will be visiting our campus throughout the year for policy focused discussion, like Congressman Mike Levin visiting on October 17th. Thank you to Mr. Burrows for organizing these educational experiences for our students!

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headshot of Dr. Dave Weiner Director of Admissions and Enrollment at Pacific Ridge School

Pacific Ridge welcomes Dr. David Weiner as its new Director of Admissions and Enrollment. With over 15 years of independent school leadership experience and a passion for building inclusive, mission-aligned communities, Weiner will lead all grade six through 12 admissions and enrollment efforts.

“David’s extensive background in academics, higher education, and independent school admissions will bring a wealth of knowledge to this role,” says Head of School Bob Ogle. “We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to the connections he will continue to build in our community.”
 
Weiner currently serves as Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management at Kehillah School in Palo Alto, where he led a transformative shift from traditional admissions to strategic enrollment management, increasing enrollment and expanding outreach to prospective families through new tour guide and parent ambassador programs. His efforts included greater accessibility for families through a planned financial aid calculator, improved application processes, and partnerships with community organizations.

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Ghiya Ali Appointed Interim Director of Community and Inclusion

Pacific Ridge has appointed Ghiya Ali as Interim Director of Community and Inclusion. A visionary educational leader, Ali brings more than a decade of experience supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth in diverse educational environments. 

Ali has served as a faculty member at Pacific Ridge since 2021. Through her work as a Grade Level Dean and Coordinator for Affinity and Alliance groups, she has led initiatives that strengthen community connections, increased student engagement, and advanced efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her work in developing curriculum, supporting advisory programs, facilitating the Regional Student Diversity Summit, and mentoring students and faculty has been integral to the Pacific Ridge experience for students and families.

“Pacific Ridge is a place where students are empowered to bring their full selves to the community,” said Ali. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation of inclusion and belonging that makes our school so special and continuing to work with students, families, faculty, and staff to support a vibrant, welcoming environment for all.”

In her new role, Ali will oversee Pacific Ridge’s programs related to community and inclusion, including affinity and alliance groups, civic engagement initiatives, and the Opportunity Scholarship program. She will also oversee the work of the Student Support Center and serve as a liaison to the Parents Association

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Model UN in Atlanta

Over the past weekend, the Pacific Ridge Model United Nations Club traveled to Emory University to participate in a prestigious national Model UN conference, showcasing their diplomatic skills and global awareness on a competitive stage. Beyond the conference, students took the opportunity to explore key historical sites in Atlanta, including the Jimmy Carter Center and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, deepening their understanding of both international relations and domestic history.

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