Greetings Camarena Parents and Families,
I want to welcome all of our students and their families to the 2023-2024 Camarena Elementary - Home of the Robogriffins, school year. In 2013, when Camarena opened its doors, the students had the opportunity to choose the school mascot, a unique blend of future and past - the Robo for the age of robotics and the Griffin for the mythical creature of ancient times. I believe this mascot is symbolic not only of the joining of what has been with what can be but it also represents one of our most cherished district values and beliefs that, "each child is an INDIVIDUAL of great worth." I believe that each child is a one of a kind masterpiece - Unique in Every Way, which is why I am thrilled to have the opportunity and the challenge to be a part of continuing the Camarena Elementary Mission:
"To make Camarena the model neighborhood school for learning in the 21st century."
Furthermore, Camarena Elementary was founded on the beliefs that all members would:
BE models of character demonstrating integrity, perseverance, and leadership as members of a community where they are valued for their individual strengths.
BE voracious learners, inspired to explore and know the world around them.
BE clear thinkers through structured social learning, the interplay of ideas, deep reflection, and evidence based opinions.
BE fully literate (including digital literacy) integrating their knowledge in all academic arenas.
BE excellent collaborators and communicators who listen critically and empathetically to one another and speak with clarity and effectiveness enhanced by multimedia.
BE explorers of their passions and interests every day, publish what they are learning, and create products that exemplify their unique talents and skills.
BE actively involved in embracing technology to facilitate the acquisition of the best knowledge and information, developing products and presentations, and making connections with experts and co-learners anytime, anywhere.
BE supportive of embracing languages through a Dual Immersion program and foreign language opportunities.
As we embrace this mission and live out these "BE" attitudes, we recognize that we cannot do it alone. We encourage every member of the Camarena school community to be involved and be a part of our work together in supporting our children and their education. Please make sure to:
· Follow our Blog: https://camarenarobogriffins.blog/
· Follow us on Twitter @CamElementary
If there is ever anything I can do to better support you, please do not hesitate to ask. Go ROBO! Sincerely,
Jason Soileau, Principal
Krista Cardenas, Associate Principal
Meet our Principal
Hello Camarena Families! My name is Jason Soileau and I am a proud to start my second full year here at Camarena, home of the Robo Griffins! I attended McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana where I received my Bachelors of Arts in Special Education and Elementary Education and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Going into my 30th year in education I have taught grades K-12 in three states (Louisiana, Texas, California), as well as serving as a teacher, assistant principal and campus principal.
All of my family is back in Louisiana but the ocean and sunshine called me to California! Family is very important to me and I travel back to Louisiana as often as possible. I have two brothers and five nieces and nephews that I get to spoil from afar. When not working, I enjoy laying on the beach listening to the ocean, playing volleyball and softball, and spending time with my friends out here in California. Palm Springs is my favorite place to sneak away to when I have a break from work.
I am proud to lead this school and the Camarena Elementary School Community as Principal. I look forward to meeting more students and families of Camarena, and working together to create the best place for students to learn. Go Robo!
Jason Soileau, Principal
Meet our Associate Principal
Hello Camarena Families! My name is Krista Cardenas and I am a proud native of Chula Vista. I attended Point Loma Nazarene University where I received my Bachelors of Arts in Liberal Studies and a Masters in Educational Leadership. Going into my 27th year in education I have taught third-sixth grade in two states (California and Maryland), two districts and five schools, as well as being an academic coach in seven schools overall.
My family is a blended family with my husband Hugo and I sharing his two adult daughters, a granddaughter and grandson, our 13 year old son Gabriel and our newly adopted German Shepherd, Zuko. My son attended Heritage Elementary in the DI program, and will continue DI into middle school at Rancho Del Rey this school year My husband, son and I enjoy watching sports, traveling, and spending time with our extensive family in the Chula Vista and Los Angeles area.
I am both honored and excited to lead the Camarena Elementary School Community as Associate Principal. I look forward to meeting the students and families of Camarena, and building positive, lasting relationships. Go Robo!
Krista Cardenas, Associate Principal