Dr. Jennifer Huynh Principal
By Natasha Randeniya
Executive News Editor
New principal Dr. Jennifer Huynh brings over a decade of experience in education to Costa. Huynh worked with both Santa Ana and Los Angeles Unified before serving as Vice Principal at Mira Costa two years ago, and as a Principal at Manhattan Beach Middle School from 2022-2024. Huynh, a South Bay local, is excited to make an impact on her own community.
“I really loved it here when I was Vice Principal,” Dr. Huynh said. “It’s a wonderful place for staff and students, and I feel so connected to this community.”
Huynh began her career in education in 2008, teaching English and leading student activities. As she moved up into administration, her focus remained on creating a positive environment for students to find their passions. She hopes to support Costa students and staff with balancing both physical and mental well-being.
“I hope Costa continues to evolve alongside the global changes happening around us,” Dr. Huynh said. “We already have a strong foundation, but it’s important to keep a growth mindset and adapt as the world changes.”
Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Hyunh moved to California in 2018. With a background in teaching English and AVID (Advance Via Individual Determination), she emphasizes her staying active, mindful, and of creating an inclusive space for both students and staff.
“I think everyone finds their place at school either when they join a club or when there’s a spark of interest in their learning in a classroom,” said Hyunh. “Hyuhn hopes to foster an environment where everyone has a safe space on campus. She takes pride in being able to see students reward themselves through their learning at Costa.
“High school is one of the best times of a student’s life,” said Huynh. “They will have the most memorable moments, the ups and downs and an opportunity for someone to find their path in life.”
Scott Hughes Vice Principal
New Vice Principal Scott Hughes joins Costa after 20-years in music education and district-wide arts program support. According to Hughes, who began his career with Manhattan Beach Unified School District in 2023, he is dedicated to fostering positive student outcomes, well-being, and creating efficient systems in the post-COVID educational landscape. Hughes has a background in promoting and assisting arts programs across the district, and previously served as a music teacher. Having supported visual and performing arts from TK through 12th grade, Hughes saw the opportunity to take on an administrative role and help improve systems to support teachers at Costa.
“I’ve always been interested in administrative work, but I loved what I was doing in the arts,” Hughes said. “I started realizing the value in setting up good systems and working with amazing teachers.”
Hughes is focused on streamlining processes at Costa and addressing the challenges the school has faced since COVID. He believes there’s been an increase in workload and pressure on both students and staff since the pandemic, which he hopes to reduce by finding more efficient ways of working. His goal is to ensure that everyone is focusing on what is best for students’ and staff members’ learning and wellbeing.
Outside of school, Hughes enjoys family life with his three children. He spends his spare time walking, remodeling homes with his wife, and supporting his youngest daughter’s canoeing interest. His family moved back to the South Bay ten years ago after having lived in Northern California. Although he dedicates time to his career, he makes sure to save time for his personal life.
“My goal is to create a positive, collaborative working environment for students and staff,” Hughes said. “I want to partner with the community and focus on student outcomes while reducing the extra work that has built up since COVID.”
Leave a Reply