Mariana Godinez – Principal, Keppel Elementary School
Mariana Godinez has been named the new Principal of Keppel Elementary School. Godinez began her educational career as a teacher in Compton Unified School District before becoming a Curriculum Specialist in 2015. She went on to serve as Assistant Principal at multiple elementary schools and was appointed Principal of Carver Elementary in 2020. Most recently, she served as the Principal of Anderson Elementary School for the past two years.
Described by colleagues as a compassionate, collaborative, and visionary leader, Godinez is known for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students and staff. Her leadership is rooted in trust, integrity, and a deep belief in the potential of every learner. She encourages innovation, values stakeholder voice, and consistently models high standards of performance and professionalism.
Amber Allen – Assistant Principal, Paramount Park Middle School
Amber Allen brings dynamic energy and student-centered leadership to her new role as Assistant Principal at Paramount Park Middle School. Allen began her career in education as an Art Teacher in 2007, teaching at William and Carol Ouchi High School and later at KIPP Sol Academy. In 2020, she taught and served as ASB Director at Saddleback High School in Santa Ana Unified. For the past two years, she has worked as the Dean of Students at Fedde Middle School in ABC Unified School District.
Allen is recognized for her collaborative leadership style, solution-oriented mindset, and strong relationships with students, families, and staff. She approaches discipline with fairness and empathy and is deeply committed to fostering academic achievement and personal growth for all students.
Celeste Calubaquib – Director of Nutrition Services
Celeste Calubaquib joins as the new Director of Nutrition Services, bringing over two decades of leadership in school nutrition programs. Most recently, she served as the Director of Nutrition Services at Hacienda La Puente Unified School District for three years. Prior to that, she was the Food Services Director for Los Alamitos Unified School District from 2014 to 2022 and held the position of Senior Food Services Supervisor for Los Angeles Unified School District from 2007 to 2014. Her career began in the private sector, including roles as an Area Supervisor and Training Manager for Tykasa/McDonald’s and as a Consultant for McGeorge Food Industries in the Philippines.
Calubaquib is described as an accomplished visionary leader known for her strong organizational skills, regulatory expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Her most defining trait is her belief in the power of staff development and her passion for creating high-quality, nutritious meals that prioritize both health and taste. She is also known for her dedication to mentoring, innovation, and community engagement. Ms. Calubaquib will begin in her role on July 14.
Paramount Unified School District is excited to welcome these outstanding leaders and looks forward to the positive impact they will have on the students, staff, and school.