Our Team

Principal- Rhonda Heffernan

Dear Stuart Mesa Families,

It is with great pleasure that I write this letter to you as your principal of Stuart Mesa School. It is truly an honor to become a part of the Stuart Mesa family and community. I wanted to tell you a little bit about myself. I live in Oceanside with my husband of 25 years, Herbert, and my two college kids, Justus and Liberty. I have 15 years of classroom experience from preschool to sixth grade and 8 years of administrative experience including four years as an Assistant Principal. I hold a Master’s in Education with an emphasis in Technology and an Educational Specialist Credential (mild/moderate) with my certification in Autism. I am a passionate educator who believes all children have the right to a high-quality education.

I have a special heart for our military families. As a daughter of a former Marine, I remember our family having to move multiple times. We had to start in a new school, a new town and make new friends. I know some of the struggles our students face and how very important it is to create a warm, welcoming, and supportive learning environment where students and parents can feel connected and accepted. 

I am looking forward to partnering with our stakeholders to honor the achievements Stuart Mesa has accomplished and work together to meet the needs of our staff, students, and military families. Together we are going to make it a great year.

Please know my door is always open. 

Rhonda Heffernan
Principal