Aloha, I’m Charlene Shimada, the Program Coodinator for the Leap Early Education Program I have taught for 19 years, fourteen of which were here in Downey Unified School District. As the principal of Alameda Elementary for 9 years, I oversaw Downey Unified’s Early Childhood Special Education preschool program. I graduated from USC with my EdD in educational leadership. I’ve had the unique opportunity to work closely with staff and families to ensure their success and plan on doing the same at Leap.
Fun facts about me: I married my high school sweetheart; I’ve known him since I was 8 years old. We have two children and all of us are USC graduates and avid Trojans! I love meeting people and enjoy watching little people learn and grow.