Over thirty years ago, I was welcomed into a new home at Salesian as I was hired as a social science teacher. It is now time for me to move on so I can spend more time with my darling grandchildren and extended family. I have decided to retire as Principal of Salesian College Preparatory effective June 30, 2023.  

Starting in 1990, I taught Government, Economics, U.S. History, and AP U.S. History to several thousand Salesian students over the last 25 years. I was challenged by their passion for learning, encouraged by their hard work, and genuinely happy that they readily embraced Don Bosco's values. I am grateful to the Salesians for the opportunity to work with many outstanding colleagues and educators that all believed, as I did, that education was really a matter of the heart. I have been blessed to interact with many amazing Salesian families over the years, and truly honored to educate their children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and neighbors. I also treasure the many friendships I have made with other Catholic educators throughout the Diocese of Oakland during my tenure.

I was asked to become Assistant Principal in 2010, followed by assuming the office of the Principal in 2016. I endeavored to enhance the academic rigor of Salesian, and provide a viable curriculum for students in the 21st century in the tradition of St. John Bosco. I was an early advocate for a comprehensive STEM curriculum at Salesian, which started with the introduction of Computer Science in 2017. For example, Salesian students now have the opportunity to take two Advanced Placement Computer Science Courses prior to college. It was also gratifying to become the first female Principal of Salesian College Preparatory, and serve as a role model for young women to pursue educational leadership positions.

I am confident that the transition team that has been put in place this year will adequately carry on the Salesian Mission far into the future. Kenneth Farr will become Principal on July 1, 2023.  Kenneth's natural ability to relate to and engage students, faculty, staff, and parents will serve Salesian well. 

I am also delighted that Dr. William Heidenfeldt (Class of 1994) will continue in his current position as Associate Principal of Curriculum and Instruction. Billy's vast experience in the classroom as a middle school teacher, university instructor, in conjunction with his post-graduate studies and research, has prepared him well to oversee Curriculum Development at Salesian. His leadership has been instrumental in mentoring our faculty, and providing excellent professional development to guide those 21st century educators. 

Lastly, it has been a pleasure working with our experienced Board of Directors, whose advice and counsel have been instrumental in moving Salesian forward. Their careful stewardship of the school's finances, and unselfish commitment to the school mission has solidified Salesian's position as a leading Catholic high school in the East Bay.  We are all so proud of our extensive network of Salesian alumni that are successful, accomplished, and faithful young men and women in the tradition of St. John Bosco. 

I will continue to always hold a special place for Salesian College Preparatory in my heart.

Marylou Flannery
Principal
mflannery@salesian.com