Principal Eager for School’s Reopening

Ramona Elementary School is expected to reopen in May, a situation that pleases Peter Chapa, who has served as administrator for the 12-member Ramona School planning committee since June and will be principal of the renovated campus when it opens.

“This is really the culmination of a 31-year career in education--seeing community involvement, staff participation in decision-making and the chance to meet with parents, teachers and students,” said Chapa, who is now principal of Marina West Elementary School and has been an educator in the Oxnard Elementary School District since 1974.

The renovated and expanded school, on 4 1/2 acres at Cooper Road and Bonita Avenue, was designed by Martinez Amador Architects Inc. When completed, it will be 38,890 square feet and will include 24 classrooms in four buildings. It will also have a multipurpose room, a full-sized library, a computer room and a tutoring room to encourage greater parent participation.

The school will feature Spanish-style architecture in an L-shaped configuration, with a fountain at the main entrance. Kindergarten classes will have a separate entrance and there will be access for maintenance vehicles near the cafeteria.

“I’m excited to work in the community where my roots are,” Chapa said. “I began my teaching career in Boyle Heights in Los Angeles in a Latino community. I’ve worked in all types of schools in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties as well.”