Aliso Niguel High School welcomes its new principal, Dr. Manoj Mahindrakar to the 2024-2025 school year and years to come. Dr. Mahindrakar was a part of the Aliso community before becoming its principal this year, bringing with him a deep connection to the school and a rich history of leadership within the district. His appointment has sparked excitement among students, staff and the broader Aliso Niguel community, as his vision for the future aligns closely with the school’s long-standing values.
He noted, “There’s a lot of nostalgia and meaning for me on this campus.”
Dr. Mahindrakar’s return to Aliso Niguel is not just a professional milestone; it’s also a personal journey. Having served in various roles within the district and beyond, he brings much experience that will guide the school toward a collaborative and inclusive future.
Dr. Mahindrakar has previously worked as an assistant principal at Aliso Niguel, which makes his return to the school all the more significant. His recent work at San Juan Hills High School has further sharpened his leadership skills, and he is now ready to apply them at Aliso Niguel.
He was also previously the principal of Don Juan Avila Middle School. These leadership roles and skills put him in an experienced position to lead Aliso with pride as its principal.
Dr. Mahindrakar is a returner from the time when he graduated from Aliso, his first teaching career at Aliso, his first administrative job at Aliso and lastly, coming back to Aliso years later as the principal.
“My vision is trying to connect what our students, teachers, staff and community see for this campus because you can’t have a school vision based on one person,” he emphasized.
For Dr. Mahindrakar, leadership is about collective effort. He seeks to promote an environment where everyone’s input matters and where the school’s future is shaped by a shared sense of purpose.
Assistant Principal Mr. Brian Brosamer, who has worked closely with Dr. Mahindrakar over the years, is thrilled to be partnering with him once again.
“I have worked with Dr. Mahindrakar for the last three years. We came over to Aliso Niguel from San Juan Hills High School together. He was also an assistant principal with me here at Aliso years and years ago,” Mr. Brosamer noted.
This long standing professional relationship underscores Dr. Mahindrakar’s dedication to building strong, collaborative teams. Dr. Mahindrakar’s vision is a commitment to making every student, teacher and staff member feel valued.
He explained, “My philosophy is that everyone here is important and that they should have a place to display their talents and feel successful.”
Under Dr. Mahindrakar’s leadership, the school will continue to provide a platform for students to grow academically, socially and personally, ensuring that no one is left behind.
As the school year progresses, the Aliso Niguel community is eager to see Dr. Mahindrakar’s ideas take shape. With a clear vision and a passion for inclusive leadership, he is set to lead Aliso Niguel High School into a bright and promising future. His return is not only a new chapter for the school but also a homecoming for a leader who is deeply invested in its success.