Welcoming New School Leaders for the 2025–26 School Year

We are proud to welcome new principals and assistant principals to NVUSD for the 2025–26 school year. These talented leaders represent a mix of returning staff and new additions—each bringing valuable expertise, a deep commitment to student success, and a shared dedication to our Strategic Plan, Transforming Our Future Together. Whether leading bilingual innovation, enhancing school culture, or championing equity and inclusion, our new administrators will play a vital role in shaping safe, nurturing, and academically rigorous environments where every student thrives.

Brian J. Howard – Principal, American Canyon Middle School

Introduction: Brian J. Howard will become the next principal of American Canyon Middle School for the 2025–26 school year.

Experience: With over 20 years in education, Mr. Howard has served as a principal at both elementary and middle schools, as well as in district leadership roles focused on post-secondary readiness and curriculum development.

Notable Achievements: He has led instructional innovations, secured multimillion-dollar grants, and received national recognition for supporting military-connected students and promoting equity through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and restorative practices.

What They Bring to Their Role: Mr. Howard’s systems-thinking approach, data-driven leadership, and deep commitment to inclusive, student-centered learning make him an inspiring addition to the American Canyon community.

Karily Dean Cruz – Principal, Unidos Middle School

Introduction: Karily Dean Cruz will serve as the new principal of Unidos Middle School.

Experience: Ms. Dean Cruz brings a rich background in language instruction and academic leadership, including experience as an assistant principal and middle school principal.

Notable Achievements: She has led programs in International Baccalaureate (IB), Advance Placement (AP), Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), and World Languages, always with a focus on equity and academic rigor.

What They Bring to Their Role: Passionate about student voice and community culture, Ms. Dean Cruz is excited to help grow Unidos Middle School’s bilingual pathways and Artful Learning model while empowering students to lead their learning.

 

Melissa Phillips – Principal, McPherson Magnet Elementary School

Introduction: Melissa Phillips will lead McPherson Magnet Elementary School as its new principal.

Experience: Ms. Phillips began her career at NVUSD as a teacher at Donaldson Way and most recently served as Community School Program Administrator, supporting Snow Elementary  School’s systems and family engagement.

Notable Achievements: She has a strong background in instructional leadership, operational coordination, and inclusive community building, and holds an administrative credential from UC Berkeley.

What They Bring to Their Role: Known for her collaborative leadership and commitment to student and family success, Ms. Phillips will continue advancing McPherson’s innovative practices and nurturing school culture.

 

Lauren Lahey – Assistant Principal, American Canyon High School

Introduction: Lauren Lahey joins American Canyon High School as Assistant Principal.

Experience: With 14 years in education, Ms. Lahey has served as a department chair and equity leader at Northgate High School, contributing to Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) implementation and professional learning.

Notable Achievements: A passionate advocate for student voice and the LGBTQ+ community, she has led schoolwide equity initiatives and instructional improvement efforts.

What They Bring to Their Role: Ms. Lahey is dedicated to building relationships, fostering inclusion, and ensuring all students are seen, heard, and supported.

 

Lesley Campoy – Assistant Principal, American Canyon High School

Introduction: Lesley Campoy has been appointed as a full-time Assistant Principal at American Canyon High

School for the 2025–26 school year, following her successful tenure in the role on an interim basis.

Experience: A dedicated member of the ACHS community since 2012, Ms. Campoy stepped into the interim Assistant Principal role during the 2024–25 school year, bringing with her deep institutional knowledge and trusted relationships with students, staff, and families.

Notable Achievements: She is known for cultivating a climate of continuous improvement, supporting school systems with clarity and care, and leading with integrity and fairness.

What They Bring to Their Role: With her permanent appointment, Ms. Campoy will continue to provide steady, student-centered leadership that reflects her strong commitment to the success and well-being of the American Canyon High School community.