Administration
darren hicks, principal
Mr. Hicks is excited and honored to serve as the new principal of Isbell. He has proudly worked in the Santa Paula Unified School District for 26 years, with 21 of those years dedicated to Isbell. Throughout his career, he has served as a PE teacher, assistant principal, coach, and mentor, while also spending five years at Santa Paula High School as a PE teacher and golf coach.
Mr. Hicks earned his degree in kinesiology with a teaching credential from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and his Master’s in Education from Azusa Pacific University. In addition to his educational experience, he has been fortunate to coach athletics for more than 30 years, including football, boys and girls basketball, and boys and girls golf.
He has a deep appreciation for this community and truly values the relationships built with students, staff, and families over the years. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors, including water skiing, boating, camping, and making memories with his family.
He looks forward to continuing to work alongside Isbell’s dedicated staff and supportive community as they continue to provide meaningful opportunities for all students during the 2026–2027 school year.
Olivia ramirez, assistant principal
Born and raised in Santa Paula, California, Mrs. Ramirez is a proud product of the local community and has dedicated her entire educational career to serving the students and families of our school district. She attended Ventura College and California State University, Northridge, before earning her master’s degree from National University.
She has been an employee of our school district for 23 years and brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her teaching career includes 10 years in second grade and 2 years in kindergarten at Grace Thille Elementary Academy of Literature and Arts. She also spent 9 years as a reading teacher serving students at Grace Thille, McKevett, and Glen City elementary schools. During the pandemic, she taught 5th grade through distance learning at Glen City, further expanding her experience and adaptability as an educator.
Throughout her career, Mrs. Ramirez has enjoyed the privilege of teaching in the same town where she grew up, building strong connections with students, families, and colleagues along the way. She is honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as an assistant principal at Isbell. She describes Isbell as a wonderful place to work and is inspired daily by the amazing staff and students who make up the school community.
Outside of work, she enjoys reading, exercising, and traveling. She also enjoys spending time with her husband and three sons.