Jeff Aprile is far from new to the Oakdale Joint Unified School District.

The long-time educator has spent 28 of his 30 years in education with the district. Of the many titles he has held during his tenure, he will now add ‘Principal’ to the list.

Aprile was recently promoted from Vice Principal of Oakdale Junior High to the chief position as OJHS Principal.

“I taught fourth grade and sixth grades at Fair Oaks and Sierra View elementary schools before leading as Teacher in Charge at Oakdale Charter High School,” the newly promoted principal said. “After serving eight years as Vice Principal at Sierra View and Cloverland elementary schools, I moved to Oakdale Junior High in the Vice Principal role a year and a half ago.”

Aprile has also enjoyed working a few years as Summer School Principal for OHS.

“I am very excited to be in this new role as Principal at Oakdale Junior High,” Aprile said.

Among the many things he’s excited about, the administrator shared he looks forward to deepening his relationships with the entire school community, staff and families.

“My goal for the year comes down to ensuring that all students learn through providing a safe and welcoming learning environment and quality classroom instruction,” he said.

Acknowledging the education climate of the past three years is still affecting students and teacher alike, Aprile stated the staff of OJHS is aware of the social and emotional factors that the pandemic shutdown can still have on academic performance.

“We are aware and working to engage and support every learner,” he said.

“No matter how good we are, we can always get better,” Aprile continued. “I am in the process of surveying and listening to staff, students, and parents to learn how we can continue to get better every day. I believe it is important in education to celebrate successes while continuing to look for new ways to grow.”

Aprile earned his Masters in Education degree in 2000 and then completed his Administrative Credential at California State University, Stanislaus. In his off time, he enjoys spending time with family, pets and grand pets on the weekends.

“Working with students is the best part about what we do,” the principal shared in regards to what he enjoys about working in education. Watching students succeed and thrive in an education environment that we intentionally design is very rewarding.”

And the new leader at OJHS embraces the notion that learning should never come to an end.

“We are always learning as educators, and we continue to gain deeper knowledge and adapt to the latest developments and needs to serve our students and their families,” Aprile said. “It’s enjoyable to continue to grow and learn as a professional and then see the positive educational impact we have on our learners.”