Manteca Unified has hired new principals for Mossdale, New Haven, and French Camp elementary schools.

Rene Knapp is assuming the principal’s job at Haven Elementary.

Knapp brings a wealth of knowledge to New Haven, as she embarks on her 28th year as an educator.

She joined the Manteca Unified team in 2002, teaching at the junior high level until 2011.

 In 2011, Knapp was hired as a District program coordinator and began her career as an administrator in 2012. She has served as the principal of French Camp Elementary School since 2018.

In joining New Haven, she is committed to fostering equitable practices for individuals facing challenges and is dedicated to advancing New Haven’s commitment to academic excellence and safety for all students and staff.   

 “I am honored to be named Principal of New Haven,” Knapp said. “I look forward to collaborating with the staff, students, and families on how best to serve New Haven’s needs.”

“I intend to reflect the District’s vision where every student works to achieve grade-level standards, feels safe, and is supported to realize individual success.”

Sella Groves is the new Mossdale Elementary principal.

 Groves brings with her 20 years of experience serving the students and families within the district in various roles, including teacher, vice principal, and Summer Academy principal.

 She has consistently demonstrated her dedication to fostering a safe and nurturing learning environment where each student is encouraged to grow and succeed.

Her commitment to educational excellence and student well-being makes her an ideal fit for leading Mossdale Elementary School into a bright and successful future.   

“As I enter this new chapter and become a part of the Mossdale family, I am committed to fostering collaborative relationships with all community partners to support students and create a place where students achieve their highest potential academically, socially, and emotionally,” Groves said. “I look forward to building strong partnerships with the parents, families, students, and staff at Mossdale.”  

Gerardo Guzman Rico is the new French Camp Elementary principal.

Guzman Rico embarked on his journey in education more than 20 years ago as a bilingual paraprofessional.

His career has encompassed various roles across Central California, including classroom teacher, dual language coordinator, program specialist, and elementary vice principal. 

In his new capacity as Principal of French Camp Elementary School, Guzman Rico looks forward to collaborating with staff and the community to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of every student.

“After serving French Camp as Vice Principal during the 2023-2024 school year, I can say without hesitation that this community is wonderfully special, unique, and inspiring,” Guzman Rico said. “I look forward to beginning this new chapter of my professional and personal life with a renewed sense of purpose, passion, and the unwavering desire to be the leader my students and colleagues deserve.”