PUSD Welcomes New Principals to Norma Coombs and Washington Elementary STEM Magnet
Dr. Charel Bailey (l) and Ms. Reyna Uka (r). Photo courtesy of PUSD
Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) is pleased to announce that two new principals have been selected for Norma Coombs Elementary School and Washington Elementary STEM Magnet School, effective July 1, 2025.
Dr. Charel Bailey will be the new principal of Norma Coombs Elementary. Dr. Bailey brings over 15 years of experience as a dedicated and highly accomplished educator and administrator across K-12 and higher education settings. Her commitment to fostering inclusive, student-centered environments is evident throughout her leadership in school counseling, student support services, and community engagement.
Dr. Bailey holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California, as well as degrees in Communication Studies from California State University, Long Beach, and in School Counseling Leadership and Education Administration from California State University, Los Angeles.
Dr. Bailey succeeds Mr. Ray Cross, who has been appointed principal of Center for Independent Study, Rose City High School, and Twilight Adult School.
Ms. Reyna Uka has been appointed as the new principal of Washington Elementary STEM Magnet School. With 17 years of experience in education, Ms. Uka brings expertise in magnet programs, curriculum, and instructional leadership. She most recently served as the District Magnet School Coordinator, where she collaborated with schools on curriculum, instructional strategy, and communication, while managing a $15 million magnet grant.
Ms. Uka has a Master’s degree in educational administration and an administrative credential from National University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
She succeeds Dr. Karrone Meeks, who has accepted a position as Principal on Special Assignment.
Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), 351 S. Hudson Avenue, Pasadena, (626) 396-3600 or visit www.pusd.us.
