By Traci Newell

Gilbert

Erica Gilbert, currently a principal at a Sunnyvale elementary school, has been named Bullis-Purissima School principal effective next month, announced Los Altos School District Superintendent Tim Justus.

“I think it’s an opportunity of a lifetime to be a principal and open a new school,” Gilbert said. “I’m extremely excited to work in Los Altos and to get to know the community.”

Gilbert began her teaching career in the Jefferson Elementary School District in Daly City. In 1996 she moved to the Sunnyvale School District as assistant principal of Sunnyvale Middle School. She has served as principal of Cherry Chase Elementary School since 2000. During her tenure at Cherry Chase, the school earned the distinction of being both a California Distinguished School and a National Blue Ribbon School.

“Ms. Gilbert is well versed in elementary and middle school curriculum and instruction,” said Justus in an e-mail sent to district parents. “She is recognized as a motivational leader with over a decade of experience working with teachers, classified staff and parents to improve learning opportunities for children.”

Gilbert will work with Linda Eckols, retired Loyola School principal, during the transition period of reopening Bullis-Purissima School and creating a new school community.