Pending formal approval by the school board, Hurd Barrington Elementary in Newman is preparing to welcome a familiar face into a new leadership role. Kavita Dhaliwal, who has served as the school’s Learning Director for the past two years, has been selected as the next principal of the campus.

Dhaliwal brings more than a decade of experience in education, all of it rooted in the Newman-Crows Landing Unified School District. She began her career in 2014 as a Kindergarten teacher at Von Renner Elementary, where she quickly became known for her dedication to early childhood education and her mentorship of new teachers. Her leadership potential was evident early on, as she served on the school’s Leadership Team and helped shape instructional practices districtwide.

A graduate of CSU Stanislaus, Dhaliwal holds a degree in Liberal Studies and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. She later earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and an Administrative Services Credential from UMass Global, further preparing her for the demands of school administration.

Colleagues describe her as a collaborative leader with a strong instructional foundation and a deep commitment to student success. Her ability to build meaningful relationships with staff, students, and families has made her a respected figure on campus.

Dhaliwal lives in Livingston with her husband and their two sons, ages 8 and 14. She says she’s excited to continue serving the Hurd Barrington community in this new capacity and looks forward to building on the school’s culture of academic excellence and inclusivity.