Toronto's Lena Garabedian appointed principal of Armenian Mesrobian School in California

The Board of Regents of Western Prelacy Armenian Schools recently announced that Toronto native Lena Garabedian will be the new principal of the Armenian Mesrobian School in Pico Rivera, California.

Garabedian earned her Master of Education, focusing on leadership, technology, and curriculum, from the Ontario Tech University (University of Ontario Institute of Technology), supplemented by a Graduate Degree in Education and a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree from the University of Toronto.
Her journey at Armenian Mesrobian School began two years ago when she became the Director of Curriculum and Instruction. During her tenure, she also worked as an educational consultant, enhancing student learning through curriculum changes, assessments, and the integration of STEAM initiatives.

Her prior experience includes a significant tenure as an administrator and head of the English Department at Metropolitan Preparatory Academy from 2016 to 2021. She has also contributed to education as a course developer at Notabilia Learning Center. She has taught at various elementary and high school levels, including Armenian subjects up to the 8th grade.

According to Board of Regents chair Sarkis Ourfalian, the board diligently searched for the most qualified candidate to assume the principal role at Armenian Mesrobian School. The goal was to find a visionary leader capable of guiding the Armenian Mesrobian School and enhancing the academic development of this educational institution. "We are delighted to announce that Ms. Lena Garabedian has been appointed as the new principal of the Armenian Mesrobian School,” Ourfalian said. “With her exceptional educational background, strong leadership abilities, extensive experience in both teaching and administration and deep commitment to Armenian education, we are confident that Ms. Garabedian will significantly contribute to the academic progress of our students at Armenian Mesrobian School and lead the school to new achievements,” Ourfalian added.

Growing up in Toronto, Garabedian was an active Armenian community member, volunteering her time and talents to several organizations and institutions.

The appointment is supported by endorsements from high levels within the community, including the Armenian Prelacy of the Western United States Prelate Archbishop Kegham Khacherian and the Executive Council of the Western Prelacy. Support also stems from the school’s faculty, staff, and various local organizations. Garabedian is poised to make significant contributions to students' academic progress at the Mesrobian School.