Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) announces the appointment of Dr. Kristin DeMicco as the new principal of Woodland Elementary School and Dr. Sean Boulton as the Director of Facilities, Athletics, and Performing Arts Operations.

Dr. Kristin DeMicco, Principal, Woodland Elementary 

With 23 years of experience, Dr. Kristin DeMicco brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to Woodland Elementary. Throughout a distinguished career in education, she has served as a classroom teacher, teacher on special assignment, assistant principal, and elementary school principal, consistently demonstrating a commitment to student achievement, inclusive practices, and strong school communities.

“Her experience, warmth, and understanding of early learning make her exceptionally well-suited to lead Woodland Elementary and support our youngest learners during these critical foundational years,” said Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Dr. Kurt Suhr. 

For the past 10 years, Dr. Demicco has proudly served the Lincoln Elementary School community, building meaningful relationships with students, families, and staff while leading initiatives that strengthened instructional practices, fostered an inclusive school culture, and supported student success. She led the implementation of Thinking Maps and Write From the Beginning across TK–6 classrooms, helping establish instructional consistency and improve student achievement. She partnered with teachers to ensure students received high-quality instruction by regularly reviewing progress, identifying needs, and working together to support student success.

Under Dr. DeMicco’s leadership, Lincoln Elementary earned multiple Gold-level Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) recognitions. The school was also honored with the Community Cares Award in recognition of its commitment to kindness, belonging, service, and positive school culture.

Dr. DeMicco looks forward to joining the Woodland Elementary community and partnering with students, families, and staff to help every student develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success. 

Dr. Sean Boulton, Director, Facilities, Athletics, and Performing Arts Operations

Dr. Sean Boulton brings extensive educational leadership experience to his new role as Director of Facilities, Athletics, and Performing Arts Operations. In this role, Dr. Boulton will provide oversight for the community use of athletic facilities, performing arts venues, and other community-facing operations. He will work closely with school sites, district departments, and community partners to support student programs.

“Dr. Boulton is a thoughtful and respected leader who has consistently demonstrated a commitment to serving students, supporting staff, and building strong connections with our community," said Deputy Superintendent, Secondary Education, Dr. Kerrie Torres. "His ability to bring people together and navigate complex challenges will help strengthen the programs, facilities, and experiences that support student success and enrich our school communities.” 

Since 2013, Dr. Boulton has served as principal of Newport Harbor High School, leading the district's largest campus while overseeing and supporting championship athletic programs, award-winning performing arts programs, and fostering strong partnerships with students, families, staff, and community organizations. 

His experience overseeing facility use, event management, and community partnerships will help NMUSD's schools and venues continue to provide safe, welcoming, and high-quality environments for students, staff, families, and community members.

As NMUSD begins the process of selecting the next principal, Dr. Boulton will remain in his position at Newport Harbor until a new principal is hired to help support a seamless transition for the 2026-27 school year.