Marina Kheel has exhibited a love and enthusiasm for learning since she was a young child. Growing up in Massachusetts she enjoyed school, and this passion for learning brought her to Stanford University, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree with honors and distinction in American Studies. After college she served as a Teach for America Corps Member in Long Beach and earned her California Teaching Credential from California State University, Dominguez Hills. Dr. Kheel taught fifth and sixth grade at Wise before she obtained her Masters of Education in Administration, Planning and Social Policy at the Harvard University Graduate School of Education. Upon returning to California, Dr. Kheel worked as Director of Constituent Affairs in the office of LAUSD Board Member Marlene Canter. Dr. Kheel served as Vice-Principal of the Elementary School for three years before accepting the post of Interim Principal. She recently received her doctorate in the Educational Leadership Program at UCLA. Having served as a teacher, Vice Principal, and Interim Principal of Wise, her dedication to the school has grown and her commitment to the community is a central part of her life. She believes in balancing lifelong learning and study with time spent with friends and family.
Marina Kheel strives to ensure the emotional, social, physical, and spiritual needs of each child are met. She believes the curriculum allows students to benefit from an outstanding academic program and build their connection to Jewish values, tradition and history. As the current Vice Principal of Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Kheel embraces the commitment to cultivating inquisitive minds, caring hearts and kind souls, and promotes creativity, individual development, and a love of learning. Daily classroom visits provide her with an opportunity to observe students learning new skills and knowledge and developing their spirituality. She is proud to be a member of this outstanding school; a school built on excellence, innovation and community.