Plumas Unified School District is pleased to welcome our newest site administrators for the 2026-27 school year. Joining our staff are four exemplary individuals who bring expertise and dedication to our junior/senior high schools, and two elementary schools.
With these key leadership roles in place, PUSD is looking forward to a strong start for the 2026-27 school year. The first day of school for students is Wednesday, August 19. The PUSD website has more information about registering your child on the Enrollment Page, and the 2026-27 Instructional Calendar has all the details for the upcoming school year’s important dates.
Chester Jr/Sr High School
Ty Watkins has been selected to serve as the new principal of Chester Jr/Sr High School beginning August 1. Ty is a deeply respected and beloved member of the CJSHS community, where he has served with distinction as a teacher, coach, and ASB/Activities Director. His work has consistently strengthened school culture, expanded student opportunities, and built meaningful relationships across campus.
Ty brings a wide range of experience in education, including teaching social science, leading student activities, serving on the WASC committee, and coaching student‑athletes at multiple levels. He is known for his steady leadership, his ability to connect with students and families, and his unwavering commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and high‑expectation learning environment.
Ty’s vision, relational leadership, and dedication to the students and staff of Chester Jr/Sr High School will be invaluable as he steps into this role. The district is confident that his passion for education and his deep roots in the community will help guide CJSHS forward with purpose, stability, and pride.
Chester Elementary School
Jamie Phillips will serve as the new Principal of Chester Elementary School, beginning August 1.
Jamie brings a strong background in education, leadership, curriculum and instruction, professional development, student data analysis, and support for district and school improvement efforts. She currently serves as the Director of Innovation and Student Success for the Alpine County Office of Education and as Principal of Bear Valley Elementary School. Her experience includes supporting TK-adult program alignment, grant management, LCAP and Dashboard reporting, community partnerships, and professional learning for staff.
Jamie says, “I am honored and excited to be joining the staff at Chester Elementary School as principal. I have dedicated the past 25 years to education and look forward to partnering with our staff, students, families, and community as we continue to create a school environment where every student can thrive. I am excited to get to know the members of this wonderful community and begin serving as your principal. I look forward to working together to support the success and well-being of every student.”
Quincy Jr/Sr High School
Richard Petersen will be the new Vice Principal and Athletic Director at QJSHS. He brings extensive experience in education, secondary school leadership, and athletics across both domestic and global landscapes. His diverse career includes serving as a high school principal, assistant principal, science teacher, department chair, and student support services leader within the United States as well as at top-tier international schools. This unique global perspective enhances his proven track record of supporting inclusive school communities, student well-being, staff leadership, and rigorous academic programs.
His athletic leadership roots run deep, including a foundational era of coaching high school basketball in Portland during the 1990s. Beyond his impressive professional background, Richard also has a personal connection to our valley, having previously lived in the community, taught at Quincy Elementary School, and briefly coached youth basketball.
Portola Jr/Sr High School
Kristen Marquette has been selected to serve as the new principal of PJSHS, beginning August 1. She is a longtime resident of Plumas County and brings a deep commitment to our schools, students, and community. She is also a proud PUSD parent, with one son attending C. Roy Carmichael Elementary School and one son attending PJSHS. Over the years, Kristen has served PUSD in many capacities and has built strong relationships with students, families, and staff across our district.
Kristen shared the following regarding her transition to PJSHS: “I am incredibly honored to serve as the new Principal of Portola Jr/Sr High School. Having been raised in this community, and serving as a local educator and CRC administrator, my commitment to Portola runs deep.
PJSHS is dedicated to providing a safe, engaging, and high-impact learning environment. Moving forward, my priority is to honor our strong traditions while fostering a culture where innovation, collaboration, and mutual respect thrive. I look forward to connecting with our staff, students, and families over the coming months. Together, we will make this an exceptional year!”
C. Roy Carmichael Elementary
Erin Klemesrud, also known as Mrs. K., has been selected to serve as the new PCOE Vice Principal at C. Roy Carmichael Elementary School.
Erin is a beloved educator with more than 25 years of service in PUSD. Throughout her career, she has taught in special education, elementary and high school general education, Career Technical Education (CTE), alternative education, and early childhood education, including serving as an infant teacher supporting students and families in their homes. She has also served for several years as the Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) Team Lead.
Erin is known for her genuine love for students, her strong relationships with families and staff, and her deep commitment to the Portola community. Her dedication extends well beyond the classroom through her involvement in youth sports, PTA, ASB, Boosters, and the coordination of prom at PJSHS.
Erin shared:
“I am very excited for this new opportunity. After 25 years of teaching in PUSD, I look forward to learning the administrative side of education. My favorite part of education is building relationships and supporting students, families, and staff. I feel like this position will give me the opportunity to serve on a much larger scale.”
Published August 20, 2026