Craig Bugbee will step down as Principal of Horace Mann Elementary School at the end of the school year. In an email to the Horace Mann community this week, Bugbee disclosed plans to relocate to Palm Springs.
“This decision has not come lightly, as Horace Mann has been my home and the heart of my professional journey for five amazing years. As the principal of Horace Mann, it has been a tremendous honor to work alongside such dedicated educators, supportive parents, and exceptional students, and a community who truly cares for one another,” he said.
Bugbee expressed gratitude to the school community and the city at large for “support, collaboration and friendship” during his tenure.
He added, “Together, we have accomplished remarkable achievements and created lasting memories that I will always treasure. We survived a global pandemic together. THAT, my friends, will be a connection that we will share throughout our lives.”
BHUSD Superintendent Dr. Michael Bregy wrote in a statement released May 9 that Bugbee’s “tireless advocacy for social-emotional wellness for every student has enhanced our academic programs and enriched our school culture.”
Referring to Bugbee’s contributions as a “high bar,” Bregy added, “As we plan ahead, please rest assured that we are committed to finding the very best next Principal for Horace Mann Elementary School. Our search will be thorough and thoughtful, selecting a leader who will uphold the values we cherish and drive forward the mission that Mr. Bugbee has so passionately carried out.”
Bregy said he will release the next steps in the selection process shortly.
