New Natomas Unified principals Patrick Birdsong and Dr. Kristen Coates met scores of students, parents and community members Tuesday night at informal gatherings in their respective campuses – Witter Ranch and Leroy Greene Academy.
The meet-and-greet sessions gave the two new principals a chance to discuss their plans, get acquainted with their campus community, and answer questions before classes start Wednesday for the new school year.
Birdsong replaces Julia True, who retired as Witter Ranch principal before the summer break. Dr. Coates takes over for Angela Herrera, who was named an NUSD Director of School Leadership and Support.
Birdsong served last year as principal of Pioneer School, a K-8 campus in Twin Rivers Unified School District. His career includes stints as principal of schools in Sacramento, Fair Oaks and San Francisco.
Dr. Coates comes to Leroy Greene Academy from the neighboring Sacramento City Unified School District. She has spent the past six years in Education Administration, including positions as SCUSD Student Outcomes Coordinator, SCUSD Evaluation Coordinator, and as principal of Ps7 Middle School, which is part of St. HOPE Public Schools in Sacramento
