New Principal to Take the Helm at McGaugh

Submitted by the Los Alamitos Unified School District

Los Alamitos Unified School District is pleased to announce that Dr. Jerry Gargus has been selected as the new Principal for McGaugh Elementary School. Dr. Gargus has worked in Westminster School District for the past eight years as a middle school assistant principal, elementary school principal, and administrator of curriculum and instruction.  Dr. Gargus served as an elementary classroom teacher in Los Angeles Unified School District at Nueva Vista Elementary School where he taught fourth grade, fifth grade, and upper grade combination classes.  

He joined Westminster School District as the Assistant Principal of Johnson Middle School and served in that capacity for two years before being promoted to the role of Principal of Schmitt Elementary School.  Under Dr. Gargus’ leadership, Schmitt made significant API growth and exited Program Improvement.  Additionally, Dr. Gargus was recognized by Westminster School District as the 2011-12 Administrator of the Year.    

Dr. Gargus received his Bachelor of Arts Degree and Masters of Science Degree from Marshall University in West Virginia.   In addition, he earned his doctorate in K-12 Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California in 2006.  When asked about being named McGaugh’s next principal, he shared, “It is an honor to join Los Alamitos Unified School District and to have the opportunity to work with the students, staff and parents of the McGaugh school community.  I look forward to being a part of a special place that provides unlimited possibilities for students in academics, activities and the arts!”

Superintendent, Dr. Kropp stated, “We are grateful that Dr. Gargus will serve as our principal at McGaugh.  His knowledge, expertise, and care for children make him an exceptional leader for our District.”  Dr. Gargus lives in Torrance with his wife of 10 years, Karen, and their two children, Karin (7) and Preston (5).