In a letter to parents and students, Catherine Real announced her decision to step down as the principal of Diamond Bar High School. Real has accepted a position at the Monrovia Unified School District, where she will be serving as the Director of Counseling, College, and Career Pathways.

Former DBHS principal Denis Paul will serve as the interim principal during Real’s absence, as the school searches to find a permanent replacement for the job.

“I would like to thank all of you for your support for the school, the staff, and all DBHS programs. Your participation and assistance have helped to create one of the best schools in the state and in the nation!” Real said in the letter.

Real has been a part of DBHS for the past 16 years, serving as a teacher, grade level coordinator, instructional dean, assistant principal, and principal during her time. Despite being sad about her departure from DBHS, Real states that she looks forward to helping the students of Monrovia prepare for college and career readiness.