PUSD Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Hawn announced at the Oct. 24 school board meeting the appointment of Elizabeth (“Beth”) Rhine as the interim principal for Wildwood Elementary School. Wildwood’s recently hired principal, Melissa Daymond, resigned without explanation a month ago. PUSD will conduct a search for a permanent principal this year.
Rhine has worked as an elementary school teacher and elementary school principal for over 30 years in Oakland and Berkeley Unified School Districts. Rhine earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from UC Berkeley, along with her multiple subjects credential from Holy Names College and her administrative services credential from California State University, East Bay, according to PUSD.
The district says it received a total of 14 applications, from which it shortlisted four candidates for an initial interview. Following the first interview, two candidates were invited back for a second interview.
At the Oct. 24 meeting, Hawn read comments from the interview panel that praised Rhine’s leadership skills, summarized in the memo recommending her appointment:
Throughout the selection process, Beth’s exceptional qualities shone through. Her passion for elementary school students, her dedication to rigorous academics, and her strong sense of integrity were evident. Beth describes herself as a listener with a collaborative approach that reflects a focus on the well-being of students and staff, all of which make her an ideal fit for Wildwood Elementary School at this time.