Gary Pope, Principal

It is both a privilege and a joy to serve as the principal of San Elijo Elementary School. Before my role here, I was the principal at Carrillo Elementary School, the assistant principal at San Elijo Middle School, and a teacher at Mission Hills High School, all within the San Marcos Unified School District.

San Elijo Elementary School is a remarkable community, characterized by enthusiastic and engaged students, dedicated and diligent teachers and staff, and actively involved parents and families. Together, we strive to ensure that every community member feels a strong sense of belonging and that all students receive the support they need to thrive, both in elementary school and beyond.

I am grateful to be a part of this vibrant community and eagerly anticipate another successful year ahead.

Go Eagles!

Mara McLeod, Assistant Principal

I’m so grateful to serve as the Assistant Principal at SEES, a place that truly feels like home. I’ve been serving the San Marcos Unified School District for over 20 years, spending several years as an elementary teacher here at SEES, later serving as a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) where I worked at Double Peak School specializing in Intervention and Instruction, and now returning to SEES in this leadership role for the past 5 years. I feel so fortunate to continue supporting this amazing community and our students—it really does feel like family. Each experience along the way has deepened my passion for helping students, families, and staff, and I am dedicated to making sure every child at SEES feels valued, included, and a true sense of belonging.