Milken Educators: Where Are They Now? (Part 1)

Dr. Cyndi Paik (CA '04)

Then:

Dr. Cyndi Paik was an assistant principal at California Elementary in Orange at the time of her Milken Educator Award in 2004. Dr. Paik helped create an environment at the school that promoted achievement and developed a program in which grade-level teams discussed, reviewed and planned for student improvement through on ongoing assessments aligned to state standards. 

Now:

Dr. Paik’s 18 years in public education and diverse talent set have led to several promotions, including Principal of California Elementary and Administrative Director of Accountability and Special Programs.  Currently, she provides educational leadership as Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services in Westminster School District (K-8).

In her own words: 

“Upon receiving my prestigious Milken Educator Award, I have grown tremendously. On a personal level, I became determined to expand my horizons and develop networks with other people in all facets of the economy to become an effective, well rounded and inspiring person. Professionally, a flame was ignited within me and the desire to promote effective teaching and learning in education. 

“Furthermore, I developed the courage to make changes in education to ensure a positive learning environment first and foremost for students, but also for teachers, staff and all other stakeholders as an educational leader, as I was promoted from Assistant Principal to Principal, then Director to an Assistant Superintendent. Although I have served in different leadership capacities, these were areas of focus that remained steady, which drove my work: ensuring clear goals and expectations, promoting life-long learning, developing problem solving skills and fostering self-reflections in those around me. I am grateful and proud to be a Milken Educator, serving our community in shaping the future of the 21st century learning environment and global economy.”