New Middle-School Principals Announced

Maria Walker will replace Sal Tomasello as the principal of Ascencion Solorsano Middle School, and Anisha Munshi will replace Greg Kapaku as principal of South Valley Middle School, Superintendent Deborah Flores announced at Thursday’s school board meeting. The announcement was met with ringing applause.

Flores used the opportunity to praise Tomasello, who is retiring in June.

“I don’t know anybody more skillful at the job than Sal,” Flores said. "He chose the staff, he put together the schedule. Along with his fantastic staff, he has made [Solorsano] the school it is today.”

She went on to say, “Both women were trained by the absolute best. We expect them to perform at a Sal Tomasello level," she said, which prompted laughter from the people in the full-to-capacity room.

Both Walker and Munshi have served as assistant principal at Solorsano. Walker has worked within the Gilroy Unified School District for 20 years; Munshi has worked in the district for 11 years.

“I am truly honored to follow in the footsteps of Sal Tomasello," Walker said. "I want to continue the foundations that have been established at Solorsano.” She turned to address Tomasello, who was beaming. “Mr. Tomasello will still play an important role at Solorsano—that of a grandparent.”

Munshi also thanked Tomasello. She addressed the school board, saying, “Thank you for your confidence in my ability. The years I’ve spent being trained by Mr. Tomasello … I’m ready. I’m ready.”