Meet Our Incoming Head of School

Sinai Akiba Academy is delighted to announce that beginning July 1, 2023, Dr. Lauren Plant will assume the role of Head of School.

A Los Angeles native, Dr. Plant is currently the Head of School at Westerly School in Long Beach, CA, where she has served in the role since 2018. During her time at Westerly, she has facilitated an innovative, strategic planning process, supported the development of signature educational programs, and helmed a schoolwide focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

Dr. Plant describes herself as, “a relational leader who deeply values open communication, collaboration, and community partnership.” She sees the role of Head of School as, “a tireless steward of the institutional mission, and a leader working to align all community stakeholders toward reaching a shared vision.” As SAA enters its 55th year, her leadership promises to lead the school into a dynamic and reinvigorated next chapter. 

 

Dr. Plant received her doctorate in education from UCLA and her masters in education from Pepperdine University. A lifelong educator and well respected administrator across the Los Angeles independent school ecosystem, she brings strategic vision and a fresh perspective to Sinai Akiba Academy. Dr. Plant is energized by SAA’s unwavering commitment to academics, the development and support of students' Jewish identities, and the values-based experience the school offers all families. Dr. Plant shared, “I am excited to work with the remarkable SAA team to help build Jewish leaders and informed citizens of tomorrow.”

 

HERE is a message to the Sinai community from Dr. Plant, which was shared with the initial announcement of her new role in December, 2022.

For over half a century, Sinai Akiba Academy (a Sinai Temple school) has provided a rigorous and engaging academic experience, enhanced by the joy and pride of Jewish learning. SAA proudly welcomes Dr. Plant into its kehillah kedoshah, its sacred community!