In the world of education, few roles demand as much versatility as that of a division coordinator. Instead of staying in one lane, Lower and Middle School Coordinator Ms. Ho’o spends her time in several. One minute, she’s crouching down to hear a fourth grader’s story about a lost tooth, the next, she is navigating a complex social dynamic with a group of eighth graders. As the Lower and Middle School Coordinator, she doesn’t just manage the Middle and Lower School calendar and events, but she also serves as the vital connection between the two most developmental stages of growing up.

If you had asked Ms. Ho’o seven years ago where she saw her career heading, her answer wouldn’t have included a coordinator’s desk. But her career with Westridge didn’t start there. It started with serving lunches at the Commons. Bringing a background in critical food studies and a college project spent in a food kitchen in Denmark, Ms. Ho’o initially joined the staff because, like many college graduates, the job market was difficult. Back then, she was a familiar, friendly face in the Commons, an active part of the school’s dining life by serving lunches. But when the pandemic upended school life, it also carved a path to a role she never expected. 

During the chaotic early days of the pandemic, her experience working in the Commons, as well as her can-do attitude, helped the Lower and Middle School transition to online school. Ms. Ho’o became a vital administrative link as the administrative assistant by synchronizing the workflows of two distinct school divisions, printing way too many school IDs, and keeping school operations moving forward when everything else was uncertain. As her role expanded, her title changed to coordinator. 

For students, Ms. Ho’o is more than an administrator. She is someone who supports students and families. Anoush J. ’30 values Ms. Ho’o’s presence. She said, “She is such a fun person to talk to, and her energy brightens the room!”

Parents also appreciate her non-traditional path, noting that it makes her more approachable and practical in her leadership. “She is such a thoughtful and inspiring presence at Westridge School for Girls. Her kindness, professionalism, and commitment to the community have made a long and lasting impact,” said Carla Bedrosian, a Westridge parent.

Ms. Heydorff, the Dean of Student Activities and Auxiliary Programs, works closely with Ms. Ho’o. “She is a tough but fair leader who loves processes and is fierce in her commitment to student success,” Ms. Heydorff said.

Ms. Ho’o hopes that every student takes the time to look back on their middle school years. “I want them to really reflect on their particular journey,” Ms. Ho’o said. “It’s hard to see how you’ve grown when you’re in the moment.”

Whether she is guiding a student through a tough day or planning for the next school year, Ms. Ho’o remains a steady example of that very advice. Her own journey from the Commons to the coordinator’s office proves that growth often happens in the most unexpected ways, a truth she is embracing as she leaves Westridge at the end of this school year to pursue a law degree at Loyola Law School. Just as she navigated the unpredictable shifts of being a coordinator, she now brings that same dedication and process-driven leadership to law school, leaving a lasting legacy on a community where every path has a place.