News Summary
The Beverly Hills Unified School District has appointed new principals for El Rodeo and Horace Mann Elementary Schools as part of significant leadership changes. Dr. Steven J. Suttle will lead Horace Mann, and Kim D’Aloisio takes the helm at El Rodeo. Their appointments follow a nationwide search aimed at finding experienced leaders to foster student achievement after previous principals were removed from their positions. Additionally, the BHUSD Board approved a partnership with BSN Sports for Nike-branded athletic gear and discussed community engagement initiatives.
Beverly Hills, California – The Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) has appointed new principals for El Rodeo Elementary School and Horace Mann Elementary School following significant leadership changes within the district. Dr. Steven J. Suttle has been named principal of Horace Mann Elementary School, while Kim D’Aloisio will lead El Rodeo Elementary School. These appointments were officially announced on May 9 and received formal approval during the BHUSD Board meeting on May 13.
The former principals at both schools were removed from their positions earlier this year, creating a need for new leadership. The hiring process for the new principals involved a nationwide search which attracted numerous qualified candidates, ensuring the best fit for the schools’ future. According to Dr. Dustin Seemann, the assistant superintendent, Suttle and D’Aloisio were selected for their extensive expertise, knowledge, training, and proven track record in fostering student achievement.
Dr. Suttle brings a wealth of experience to Horace Mann Elementary School, having served as a principal in multiple California school districts. His leadership has been recognized through various awards, including the Gold Ribbon Award and both the PBIS Platinum and Silver Awards. He emphasized his passion for elementary education, highlighting that it is his calling, and mentioned his family’s strong background in the field of education.
Kim D’Aloisio comes from a background of success as well, having previously led a Los Angeles middle school that was recognized as a California Distinguished School during her tenure. Under her leadership, the school also received awards for excellence, such as the Magnet Schools of America Merit of Excellence in 2024 and 2025. D’Aloisio expressed her eagerness to elevate El Rodeo Elementary School to new heights as she joins the team.
In addition to the leadership changes, the BHUSD Board also addressed a separate agenda item during the May 13 meeting. The board approved a five-year agreement with BSN Sports, allowing them to provide Nike-branded clothing and equipment to student athletes, effective July 1. This approval came with a unanimous vote of 3-0, although Board President Rachelle Marcus and Board Member Amanda Stern chose to abstain.
Discussion surrounding the Nike deal highlighted some concerns among board members regarding its placement on the meeting agenda. There was a call for further detailed discussions before proceeding with such a move. Board Member Russell Stuart, who initiated the agreement, defended the necessity of the deal by pointing to previous inadequacies related to the quality of BHUSD sports teams’ apparel. Another board member, Sigalie Sabag, explained that the deal hinged on Stuart’s relationship with Nike, indicating that the decision was not solely based on brand popularity.
The board also focused on enhancing transparency within the district by considering the formation of a community group called Building Relationships in District Governance and Education (BRIDGE). This proposal was presented by Board Member Stuart in response to community requests aimed at improving communication and involvement in decision-making processes. Several board members expressed cautious optimism about this initiative, with plans for further discussions in upcoming meetings.
These changes within BEHUSD, encompassing both the new appointments at the elementary schools and the board’s decisions regarding communications and student athletics, signify a new chapter for the district aiming to foster academic success and community engagement.
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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 Press: BHUSD Announces New Principal of El Rodeo
- Google Scholar: Beverly Hills Unified School District
- Beverly Hills Courier: Teachers Union, BHUSD Hope to Reach Agreement Before Summer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Beverly Hills
- Beverly Press: Beverly Hills Unified School District Superintendent Resigns
- Google News: Beverly Hills Unified School District
