Staff

Sahra Tanikawa Principal Stanikawa@tustin.k12.ca.us

  Mrs. Tanikawa has worked in the Tustin Unified School District for 5 years and has served in public education for more than 19 years.  Prior to joining Hewes, Mrs. Tanikawa served five years as the Assistant Principal at Beckman High School.  Mrs. Tanikawa oversaw curriculum and instruction and is a leader dedicated to supporting teachers, staff, and students. 

  As the assistant principal at Beckman High School, Mrs. Tanikawa led the work to establish a comprehensive school counseling program, developed Dual Enrollment processes, grew the Career Tech Pathway programs expanding both photography and applied medical pathways. Mrs. Tanikawa’s background at the high school level allows her to support our students in getting on the right path to becoming successful high school students, graduates, and lifelong learners.

  Mrs. Tanikawa believes that great schools result from the collaborative efforts of students, parents, teachers, and staff. She feels her primary goal is to continue to provide the Hewes team with the tools they need to help students grow and learn. Mrs. Tanikawa’s priority is to understand who we are as a Highlander community and to build upon the great work that is taking place at Hewes.

  Outside of school, Mrs. Tanikawa is a mother of two boys and has an amazing and supportive husband. Her oldest son is a sophomore in college and her younger son is a senior in high school.  As a family, they are highly involved in outdoor activities and spending time staying active and healthy.

 "I am thrilled to be joining the Highlander community with such a rich past”, said Mrs. Tanikawa.  “I look forward to working with the staff, students, parents, and community as we continue to build our bold future together.”