Meet the Principal!

Dear SunRidge Community,

I am honored to lead this school with such a unique approach to teaching and learning, a skilled and dedicated staff, and supportive school community. I feel extremely fortunate to share this experience while supporting students, their family members, and the staff. 

I have been dedicated to my educational career for the past 24+ years when I first decided that this was my career path. Prior to becoming a principal here at SunRidge I worked with students from Kindergarten through 12th grade in a variety of roles. Those roles have been in public education and alternative education, working with the most fragile children. I have also served as an administrator in alternative education, middle school and high school settings. During those assignments I mentored and coached intern teachers along with teaching  English Language Development courses for intern teachers attending a county schools program. These past two years I have been living and teaching in Casablanca, Morocco while immersing myself in the amazing culture. I am excited to utilize my skills as an educational leader at SunRidge Charter School and work with you as a partner to support our children through the Waldorf approach to education. 

On a personal note, I was born and raised in California and have raised three amazing adults. My two daughters have provided me with four wonderful grandchildren that I spend most of my time off with. I have recently married an amazing man that I met while living in Morocco. Prior to teaching I was a chef and studied at a school in San Francisco. I consider myself to be well rounded involving myself in the arts, culinary arts, world exploration, culture and travel. 

I view education as a lifelong process and will continue to learn new approaches from our students, teachers, and parents at SunRidge. Though I do not have Waldorf background, the approach to educating the whole-child is essential and I am fully invested in the approach. 

I look forward to meeting you all and working with the SunRidge community.

My door is always open and my email is always available. I am here for all conversations involving the success of your children. Please feel free to contact me when the need arises.
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Let’s have a great school year.

Sincerely,

Karen Ertel
Principal