Administration


Superintendent: Stan Mojsich
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My name is Stan Mojsich, and I am honored to serve as the new Superintendent of the Los Molinos Unified School District. It is both a privilege and a joy to join this close-knit, hardworking, and deeply rooted community. As we begin a new school year together, I look forward to building strong partnershps with students, families, staff, and the broader community in support of our shared mission: ensuring every student is seen, valued, and supported.
 
With more than 30 years in public education as a teacher, principal, and district leader, I know that the heart of every successful school lies in its people. Relationships, trust, and shared purpose are what drive us forward, and I already see that spirit alive and well here in Los Molinos. Having grown up in Northern California and studied just down the road at Chico State, I feel deeply connected to this region and the values that shape it. This community matters to me, and I am committed to working alongside all of you to support every student, every classroom, every day.
 
Our focus this year will be on:
  • Building strong relationships that foster connection and trust.
  • Strengthening systems meeting high expectations to challenge and inspire our students.
  • Creating safe, welcoming, and culture of improvement where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Whether your child is beginning transitional kindergarten, entering high school, or anywhere in between, we are here to ensure this year is successful and memorable. You will see me in classrooms, at events, and around town—please don’t hesitate to introduce yourself. I want to listen, learn, and grow together as we build on the strong foundation already in place while finding new ways to elevate our district.
 
Thank you for the warm welcome I’ve already received. Together, let’s make the 2025–2026 school year one of growth, achievement, and celebration for the entire Los Molinos community.
 
With great appreciation and excitement,
Stan Mojsich
Superintendent
 

Los Molinos High School Principal: Megan Weiss
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Megan Weiss
Megan Weiss is the Principal for Los Molinos High School. She has been with LMUSD since 2018, when she came as an education specialist. Megan is dedicated and committed to the students of the Los Molinos School District, and has 2 of her own children who attend school within the district. Megan is an alumni of Vina Elementary School Class of 2000 and Los Molinos High School Class of 2004. Megan went onto Chico State where she received a BA in Criminal Justice in 2008, and then completed the Multiple Subject and Masters Program at Simpson University in 2017. In 2018 Megan received her Special Education Credential from National University, and then completed her Administrative Credential at Simpson in 2023. 
 
Megan is currently an active member within the community as a Los Molinos Chamber of Commerce Board Member, 4-H leader, Friends of the Library member, and is a member of our booster clubs at LME and LMHS.
 
Email: mweiss@lmusd.net
 

Los Molinos Elementary School Principal: Kristina Zarate

 
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My name is Kristina Zarate, and I’m honored to serve as the Principal of Los Molinos Elementary School. As a Chico native and resident of Los Molinos, this community is truly home—it holds a very special place in my heart.
 
For the past 20 years, I’ve had the joy of working at Los Molinos Elementary in many roles. I’ve taught across grade levels and, most recently, served as a Resource Specialist in Special Education. Those years in the classroom shaped my passion for building strong, positive relationships with students, staff, and families—something I believe is at the heart of great schools.
 
I’m a proud Chico State graduate with teaching credentials in Multiple Subjects and Mild to Moderate Support Needs. Most recently, I earned my Administrative Services Credential through the Shasta County Leadership Academy. I am deeply passionate about literacy and creating a school environment where every child can thrive academically while also feeling a true sense of belonging. Family engagement is also close to my heart—I want all parents and families to feel welcome and valued at our school.
 
Here’s to a fantastic year ahead—Go Wildcats!
Email: kzarate@lmusd.net
 

Vina Elementary School Principal: Kendi Merlo
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woman with black flowery shirt and glasses
Kendi Merlo is the Principal and 7th and 8th Grade Teacher at Vina Elementary.  Mrs. Merlo has been with the Los Molinos Unified School District since 2011 and began her career in education in 2000.  As a 1996 Los Molinos High School and 1992 Vina Elementary School graduate, Mrs. Merlo is deeply invested in the success of all students in the Los Molinos Unified School District.  Mrs. Merlo spends her spare time shuttling her two children to all of their activities!
 
 

 
LMUSD Assistant Principal: Derek Badovinac
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D. Badovinac
I am extremely grateful and excited for the opportunity to work with all school sites in Los Molinos Unified School District. I grew up in Modesto, CA in a family filled with educators and have known since a young age that education was the right career path for me. In my free time I enjoy going out in nature and spending time with my wife, Brooklyn, and our two dogs. My wife and I started dating in high school before moving to Chico together for college. During my time at Chico State I received my BS in Mathematics Education and Single Subject Teaching Credential. In an effort to further my education I completed my MA in Education Leadership and Administrative Credential through the Teacher’s College of San Joaquin. Prior to becoming an administrator, I worked in the Live Oak Unified School District where I have taught Math and AVID at the middle school and high school level as well as coach varsity football. I look forward to creating new relationships and continuing the supportive culture that Los Molinos has developed by working to provide a quality education for all students. 
 
Email: dbadovinac@lmusd.net