Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) announces the appointment of Brittney Figueroa as the new principal of Wilson Elementary School, Jeff Giles as the new principal of Costa Mesa Middle/High School, Dr. Christa Glembocki as the new principal of Newport Elementary School, and Bonnie Hinton as the new principal of Paularino Elementary School. These leaders bring extensive experience, a commitment to student success, and a shared passion for fostering welcoming and high-achieving school communities.

Brittney Figueroa, Principal, Wilson Elementary School

Ms. Brittney Figueroa brings a strong track record of raising student achievement, strengthening teacher collaboration, and building lasting community partnerships to her new role as principal of Wilson Elementary School.

She previously served as the principal at Global Education Academy, where she led efforts to improve academic growth, teacher collaboration, and build strong community relationships. Prior to that, she was an elementary school classroom teacher and administrative designee.

With a deep passion for student learning and a collaborative leadership style, Ms. Figueroa is committed to creating a school culture rooted in trust, high expectations, and mutual respect. She works closely with teachers to set data-informed goals and supports staff in improving instructional practices to meet students’ diverse needs.

Fluent in English and Spanish, Ms. Figueroa prioritizes purposeful communication with families and believes that schools thrive when parents and educators work together as partners in education. 

“Ms. Figueroa brings a thoughtful, student-centered approach to leadership. Her instructional experience and expertise, collaborative style, and strong ability to build relationships with families make her an outstanding fit for Wilson Elementary,” said Ms. Socorro Shiels, assistant superintendent of achievement, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Ms. Figueroa’s leadership philosophy is grounded in transparency, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to student academic success. We look forward to a fantastic year ahead under her leadership.

Ms. Figueroa obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Global Studies and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara. 

Jeff Giles, Principal, Costa Mesa Middle/High School

With more than 20 years of experience in secondary education, Mr. Jeff Giles brings a strong track record of leadership, instructional excellence, and a deep commitment to student-centered learning. He joins NMUSD after serving as Principal of Esperanza High School in the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, where he led remarkable academic improvement.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Giles as he brings a strategic, student-centered approach to leadership that is grounded in a deep passion for student success. His extensive experience and collaborative style make him an exceptional fit to lead the combined 7-12 campus,” said Deputy Superintendent Dr. Kerrie Torres.

Throughout his career, Mr. Giles has served in a range of positions, including teacher, department chair, assistant principal, and principal. Most recently, he served as the Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator for Downey Unified School District. He has been a strong advocate for expanding access to Advanced Placement and Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, and has worked to support English Learner achievement through the development of A-G aligned course offerings.

“His experience in both academic and arts leadership reflects a future-ready vision that aligns with Costa Mesa’s diverse and vibrant school community,” said Dr. Torres.

Giles obtained his Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Systematic Biology from California Polytechnic State University, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix, and is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Concordia University, Irvine.

Dr. Christa Glembocki, Principal, Newport Elementary

Dr. Christa Glembocki, most recently serving as principal of Dwyer Middle School in Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD), brings more than two decades of experience in education to her role as the new principal of Newport Elementary School. 

While at HBCSD, Dr. Glembocki led efforts that elevated the school’s academic performance, student culture, and statewide recognition. Under her leadership, Dwyer was named a California and National School to Watch, earned the PBIS California Gold Award, and received a California Distinguished School honor. 

“Dr. Glembocki brings a wealth of experience and a genuine talent for building strong, trusting relationships with students, staff, and families,” said Dr. Kurt Suhr, NMUSD assistant superintendent of elementary education. “Her student-centered mindset, combined with a strategic and collaborative approach to school improvement, makes her an outstanding choice to lead Newport Elementary.”

Dr. Glembocki’s career began as an elementary school teacher before she rose through the ranks as an assistant principal and principal. At Dwyer Middle School, she pioneered programs such as the GRIT initiative, which significantly improved student behavior and engagement, and launched a zero period that expanded access to electives for all students.

A strong advocate for family engagement, Dr. Glembocki has fostered vibrant school communities by working hand-in-hand with PTAs and parent leaders. She is known for her thoughtful communication, inclusive spirit, and ability to build strong relationships with students, staff, and families alike.

Dr. Glembocki received a Doctorate in K–12 Urban Education from the University of Southern California, a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from California State University, Fullerton, and multiple state credentials in teaching and administration. She is actively involved in educational leadership statewide, including serving on the ACSA Region 17 Board.

Bonnie Hinton, Principal, Paularino Elementary

With 20 years of experience in education, 14 within Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD), Ms. Bonnie Hinton brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and dedication to her new role as principal of Paularino Elementary School.

Ms. Hinton most recently served as an assistant principal at Ensign Intermediate School, where she played a key role in fostering a safe, supportive, and academically focused school environment. In this position, she supervised and evaluated staff, led student support teams, coordinated professional development, and collaborated with families to support student success.

Her background includes serving as a special education coordinator and autism specialist in NMUSD, where she supported teachers, administrators, and families to create programs that meet the unique needs of diverse learners. With a strong foundation in behavior intervention, inclusive practices, and academic data analysis, she has led districtwide initiatives that improve outcomes for all students and elevate schoolwide systems of support.

“Bonnie’s strong instructional leadership and her ability to build collaborative, student-centered school cultures make her an excellent fit for Paularino,” said Dr. Kurt Suhr, assistant superintendent of elementary education. “She brings a heartfelt commitment to family engagement and academic excellence that will serve our students well.”

Ms. Hinton has a Master’s Degree in Special Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies, both from California State University, Long Beach. She also has an Administrative Services and Education Specialist Credential.

Please join us in welcoming our principals to their new leadership roles. We look forward to the positive impact they will bring to the students, staff, and families of their schools.