Welcome Maple Mustangs! It is an absolute privilege to serve this amazing community. With more than 28 years in education, I am thrilled to be your principal and consider it an honor to be here at Maple!

I believe in the power of teamwork and it is my desire to partner with you throughout the year. The Maple family is genuinely committed to your student’s educational journey and so am I. It is my hope that the teamwork of parents, teachers, and the community will continue to foster our students' emotional and academic growth. I will strive to lead and encourage our students to do their best and be their very best.

A little about me… I am a mom to three great adult kids who are 23, 21,and 21. My son lives on his own and is in the IT world. Both of my daughters graduated from Grand Canyon University. One of my daughters is married and is a project manager for an IT company and my other daughter a librarian. Life passes very quickly and I cannot believe my kids are grown ups! My step son attends California Aeronautical University and is studying to become a pilot. My husband, Steve and I cannot wait for pilot family perks!

I began my career in 1996 teaching second grade at Rockford School in Porterville. I moved to Bakersfield and continued to teach second grade in McFarland. I moved to the Fruitvale School District, where I taught fourth and fifth grade for many years. After having children, I stayed at home for a bit and then returned to teaching middle school for BCSD. I later joined my own children in the Norris School District where I taught fifth and sixth grade for seven years. Here I was a mentor teacher, enjoyed running ASB, served on a variety of curriculum committees, and caught the dream of becoming an administrator! In 2021, I joined the Standard Middle School staff as a vice principal. I have enjoyed my two years at SMS and am thankful for everything I have learned.

I am delighted to be part of the Maple Mustang community and work alongside such a dedicated and committed staff. My door is always open and I look forward to an outstanding school year!

Respectfully,

Mrs. Herstad

cherstad@mapleschool.org

661-746-4439