Principal Beatson Leaving Neil Cummins

Dr. Leslie Beatson is leaving her post as principal at Neil Cummins Elementary School to take up the same post at Matthew Turner Elementary School in Benicia.

For Beatson, who lives in Benicia with her family, the job at Matthew Turner is more than a professional move but also fits nicely with her personal philosophy.  “I really believe in giving back to the community where I live,” said Beatson.  “I love being in the community where I work.”

Beatson, a Connecticut native who moved to California with her family three years ago, has been teaching since 1990. She began her career in Connecticut where she received her undergraduate degree and a masters degree in reading from Central Connecticut State University. 

After eight years she moved to Vermont, where she worked as a reading specialist before becoming a principal. “My first title was Head of School,” she said. “The principal moved up to the high school and I took over the elementary school. We worked very collaboratively.”

After 11 years in Vermont, Beatson and her husband decided it was time to try something new so they headed west. “There were a few reasons,” said Beatson. “We wanted a change, the weather and my husband grew up in Berkeley. We wanted to explore and have a new challenge.

Beatson received her doctorate in education leadership and curriculum from the University of Vermont.

“She was the interview committee’s first choice,” said BUSD Superintendant Janice Adams.  The interview committee was made up of teachers, staff and parents from the Matthew Turner Elementary School community.  “Her background in literacy was a big factor too.”