Principal Dale, Superintendent Dr. Matthews organize neighborhood meet-and-greets

By Maggie Robak
Staff Writer

Mira Costa Principal Ben Dale and Manhattan Beach Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Michael Matthews held meet-and-greets this past month and wish to present themselves more to the community.

Parent Teacher Student Association President Tami Brothers organized the events to formally introduce the two new administrators to the public. The meetings are meant to serve as an opportunity for parents to get to know these new leaders and increase communication between the parents and the administration.

“These meetings are really an example of why we are such a great district. There is a close interconnected relationship here in Manhattan Beach and it is why we are so successful,” Dale said.

Dale came up with the idea to have these meetings as an opportunity for members of the community to interact on a more personal level with the administrative staff. He hopes that this will increase parent involvement in school and district issues.

“I want to let parents know that they’ve got to get involved. That is what is remarkable about our community; parent involvement is so strong,” Dale said.

The meetings began with a casual greeting time, when parents introduced themselves to Dale and Matthews or asked any personal questions. Then Dale and Matthews addressed the parents as a group. Finally there was an opportunity for parents to ask questions and discuss any other issues before the meeting ended.

Dale, Matthews and the parents discussed topics from Measure BB to the academic curriculum and standards being taught.

“We appreciate parent feedback because it helps us become better at what we do. We have a great district, but I believe we can all work together and make it even better,” Matthews said.

The first meeting was held on Oct. 26 and was hosted by the Bordokas family. Many who were involved with this event consider the first meeting to be a success.

“It gave us a chance to do some face to face interaction, and I am looking forward to the next ones,” MBUSD school board member and parent Bill Fournell said.