News Summary
The Beverly Hills Unified School District has appointed Dr. Steven J. Suttle and Kim D’Aloisio as the new principals for Horace Mann and El Rodeo Elementary Schools. These appointments come after recent leadership changes and were made following a thorough search for qualified candidates. Both principals bring significant experience and a commitment to educational excellence. In addition to the principal appointments, the Board approved a partnership with BSN Sports for Nike-branded sporting apparel to enhance the district’s athletic programs.
Beverly Hills – The Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) has appointed new principals for Horace Mann and El Rodeo Elementary Schools amid recent leadership changes. Dr. Steven J. Suttle will lead Horace Mann, while Kim D’Aloisio takes over at El Rodeo. The announcements were initially made on May 9 and officially approved during a board meeting on May 13.
The appointments come in the wake of the former principals’ removal earlier this year, marking a pivotal transition for both schools. A nationwide search was conducted to fill the positions, which drew a pool of highly qualified candidates. According to BHUSD Assistant Superintendent Dr. Dustin Seemann, the district prioritized expertise, knowledge, and proven successes in education when selecting the new leaders.
Profiles of the New Principals
Dr. Steven J. Suttle brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as principal in various California school districts. His accomplishments include receiving the Gold Ribbon Award alongside PBIS Platinum and Silver Awards, showcasing his effective leadership and commitment to educational excellence.
Kim D’Aloisio joins BHUSD from a Los Angeles middle school that earned the title of California Distinguished School. Under her leadership, the school was recognized for excellence by Magnet Schools of America in 2024 and 2025. Both principals expressed their enthusiasm for their new roles, with Suttle citing a family background in education and D’Aloisio emphasizing her goal to elevate El Rodeo’s performance further.
Board Meeting Highlights
During the same board meeting where the new principals were approved, the BHUSD Board also voted unanimously to enter into a five-year agreement with BSN Sports. This agreement will see students outfitted in Nike-branded clothing and sporting equipment beginning July 1. The initiative, proposed by Board Member Russell Stuart, aims to address concerns regarding the quality of apparel for BHUSD sports teams.
The vote proceeded with a 3-0 outcome; however, Board President Rachelle Marcus and Board Member Amanda Stern abstained from voting, which led to some discussions among board members. Concerns were raised regarding the implications of forming a long-term partnership with a large corporation like Nike. In response, some board members questioned the focus on educational excellence, especially in light of past decisions during Stern’s tenure on the board.
Community Engagement Efforts
Additionally, the board explored measures to improve communication and transparency within the district. A proposal to form a community group called Building Relationships in District Governance and Education (BRIDGE) was discussed in response to parent feedback about transparency issues in decision-making processes. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and foster a collaborative environment for parents and educators alike.
As BHUSD moves forward with its new leadership and initiatives, the appointments of Suttle and D’Aloisio are seen as crucial steps in rebuilding and enhancing the educational environment at Horace Mann and El Rodeo Elementary Schools. The community looks forward to the positive impacts these changes will bring to students, staff, and families.
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Additional Resources
- Beverly Hills Courier: BHUSD Hires New Principals & Makes Deal with Nike
- Wikipedia: Beverly Hills
- Beverly Press: BHUSD Announces Departure of Beverly Hills High School Principal
- Google Search: Beverly Hills Unified School District
- Beverly Hills Courier: Principal Drew Stewart Leaving BHHS
- Google Scholar: Beverly Hills school leadership
- Beverly Press: BHUSD Welcomes New Horace Mann Elementary School Principal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Primary Education
