Committing to a Principal

Irene Smerigan, the first principal appointed by interim Superintendent Ramon C. Cortines, began her first day at Pacoima Elementary School on Monday.

On Tuesday, the state released its first-ever ranking of public schools. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 the highest ranking, Pacoima Elementary ranked a 1.

Even compared to schools with similar demographics, such as socioeconomic status, teacher qualifications and students who are not fluent in English, Pacoima Elementary fared no better. It still scored a 1, the lowest possible rank.

A first week like this would be enough to give anyone second thoughts. But Smerigan was determinedly upbeat about the challenges ahead, telling a Times reporter she was elated about her new job.

The ranking, after all, came as no surprise to anyone familiar with Pacoima Elementary. It is severely crowded. Most of its students cannot read or speak English fluently. While such circumstances would test the most veteran teacher, half of Pacoima’s teachers have less than five years’ experience in the profession. Many are using emergency credentials.

If Cortines wants to show he can turn around Los Angeles schools, this is the ultimate test. And he’s convinced Smerigan has the drive and dedication to do it.

Smerigan built a reputation for establishing ties with parents and community members when she served as principal at other schools in the northeast San Fernando Valley.

And her own experience as a first-generation Mexican American and nonnative English speaker who was the first in her family to go to college fuels a deep commitment to her largely Latino students--and makes her an excellent role model.

But as qualified as she is for this tough job--and as crucial as strong leadership is--Smerigan alone can’t bring about the transformation of Pacoima Elementary.

Cortines describes his appointment of Smerigan, who worked downtown as an administrative coordinator for the past two years, as the first step in his plan to shift power away from the district headquarters to the local level.

He will have to make good on his commitment to give principals authority, responsibility and accountability. And he’ll have to live up to his promise to provide the tactical support schools need, from direction on what reading initiatives work best to such basics as textbooks for all students.

And if Cortines lives up to his commitments, teachers, parents, business leaders and volunteers will have to make the most of the initiative being offered them. Smerigan is willing to lead. She needs a driven and dedicated community to follow.