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Dr. Barbara Ostos has begun her tenure as Santa Catalina School’s fifth head of school.

She takes over from Meg Bradley, who retired at the end of the 2021-22 school year.

"My excitement to serve Santa Catalina is fueled by the transformational experiences our students have at school,” Dr. Ostos said. “The opportunity to lead a mission-centered community like ours is a challenge and opportunity that inspires me each day."

An experienced educator, she has spent more than 20 years as a teacher, grade-level leader, dean of students, divisional principal, and school-wide administrator. Prior to joining Catalina, she was the Assistant Head of School at Catlin Gabel in Portland, Oregon, where she earlier served as Middle School head and as the senior administrative lead for diversity and inclusivity. She began her educational career at Francis Parker School in San Diego, where she taught Spanish, history, study skills, and more in the Middle and Upper Schools, and served as Middle School dean of students.

She holds a B.A. in government from Harvard University, an M.A. in nonprofit leadership and management from the University of San Diego, and an Ed.D. in educational leadership from UC San Diego.

Dr. Ostos was born in Guanajuato, Mexico, and grew up in San Diego. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children playing games, watching movies, baking, playing basketball, and bike riding.

She looks forward to getting to know the school community and plans to create opportunities to meet families and learn about their experiences.

Stay tuned as we continue to welcome Dr. Ostos to Catalina.