Beverly Hills High School Principal Announces Departure

Students engaging in political discussions at Beverly Hills High School.

News Summary

Principal Drew Stewart of Beverly Hills High School will leave his position at the end of the school year to take a role with the Lawndale Elementary School District. His decision emphasizes family priorities, despite the difficult nature of his departure. BHUSD appreciates his leadership and is committed to a smooth transition for new school leadership. Recent protests on campus in support of Donald Trump have led to restrictions on group gatherings to preserve the safety and normalcy of school life.

Beverly Hills – Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) announced that Beverly Hills High School (BHHS) Principal Drew Stewart will depart from his position at the end of the school year. Stewart has accepted a new role with the Lawndale Elementary School District, which will allow him to reduce his daily commute and spend more time with his family.

BHUSD expressed gratitude for Stewart’s leadership, highlighting his compassion, consistency, and dedication to the potential of every student. In a statement issued on May 2, Stewart described his decision to leave as difficult but necessary, emphasizing the need to prioritize his family. He stated that Beverly Hills has been home for him in every way.

The BHUSD is committed to ensuring a smooth transition as it begins the process of selecting a new principal for BHHS. The district aims to maintain the academic and social environment that has been carefully cultivated under Stewart’s guidance.

Recently, Beverly Hills High School has faced challenges related to protests and demonstrations in support of former President Donald Trump. In response to these pro-Trump protests, BHHS has limited students’ ability to assemble in large groups. Principal Stewart communicated to families that while students are still allowed to express their political views, they will not be permitted to congregate or form large groups on campus. This decision was made to preserve the normalcy of school activities and ensure the safety and well-being of all students.

The demonstrations gained attention through viral TikTok videos showcasing students celebrating Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election. In these gatherings, students could be seen dancing, cheering, and crowding closely together, prompting administrative action to prevent further disruption. The demonstrations raised concerns about safety and order within the school environment.

Beverly Hills is recognized as a Republican stronghold, particularly within the context of predominantly Democratic Los Angeles County. In local precincts, Trump captured 63% of the vote compared to Kamala Harris, who received 33%. This political landscape has fueled fervent expressions of political support among BHHS students.

Superintendent Michael Bregy emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe environment for students and staff during these demonstrations. He noted that school staff monitored the events and acted promptly to prevent them from interfering with regular school activities. The superintendent stressed the need to balance students’ freedom of expression with the responsibility to maintain order within the school setting.

Despite the new restrictions on group assemblies, students continue to be encouraged to engage in political expression on an individual basis. This approach aims to foster a respectful dialogue about political issues while safeguarding the educational atmosphere at BHHS.

The conversation surrounding political expression and school safety continues to evolve as BHHS prepares to transition to new leadership at the end of the school year. Moving forward, BHUSD is committed to supporting its community in navigating these complex issues while prioritizing the academic environment and student safety.