Dr. Melissa La Belle to Lead Instructional Services for MUSD

MOORPARK, Calif. (June 5, 2025)—Moorpark Unified School District is proud to announce Dr. Melissa La Belle as its next Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services. She will assume the role September 1, following the retirement of Dr. Jane Wagmeister.

Dr. Wagmeister, who joined MUSD in 2021, brought more than three decades of experience in education.

A former special education teacher, site principal, and longtime curriculum leader at the Ventura County Office of Education, she became known throughout the region for driving collaborative, research-informed change in schools. She co-authored California's RTI Technical Guidance Book, which is used statewide.

Her time in Moorpark Unified has left an enduring mark. She worked closely with teachers and site leaders to enhance curriculum, expand professional growth opportunities and elevate the social-emotional wellbeing of students as part of a whole-child approach. In 2024, she was named Co-Educator of the Year by ADL Tri-Counties for advancing school cultures grounded in belonging and respect.

“Jane’s influence will be felt for years to come,” said Superintendent Dr. Kelli Hays. “She’s been a trusted voice in every instructional conversation, and her heart for students and staff has guided our work.”

Dr. Hays said there is no one better prepared than Dr. La Belle to step into the assistant superintendent position and carry forward the district’s strong academic vision.

“Melissa knows this district because she’s grown within it,” Hays said. “She’s earned the respect of her colleagues through years of thoughtful leadership, a steady presence and a deep belief in what’s best for students. Her commitment to Moorpark Unified runs deep, and people trust her because they’ve seen that dedication in action.”

Dr. La Belle has spent nearly 20 years serving Moorpark schools.

She taught at the elementary and middle school levels, led Mesa Verde Middle School as principal, and most recently has served for the past three years as Director of Curriculum and Instruction. Her experience has helped shape the district’s instructional priorities and academic systems.

In her most recent role, Dr. La Belle guided efforts to improve teaching and learning across MUSD. She oversaw curriculum adoptions, led professional learning and supported classroom coaching aligned with school goals.

Working alongside principals and teaching teams, she emphasized evidence-based strategies and used student data to address learning gaps. She also played a central role in developing and monitoring the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), a state-required roadmap for setting academic goals and ensuring that community voices are heard in the shaping of the district.

For the past several years, Dr. La Belle and Dr. Wagmeister have worked in close partnership, exchanging ideas, aligning districtwide efforts and standing side by side as leaders in the district.

Their shared commitment to strong instruction and student success helped guide MUSD’s academic direction. That ongoing collaboration also laid the groundwork for a smooth, well-prepared leadership transition.

“Moorpark has been my professional home for nearly 20 years,” Dr. La Belle said. “It’s where I’ve grown as an educator and a leader, and where I’ve seen what’s possible when people are united by a shared commitment to students. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue that work and to support the teachers, staff and families who make this district so special.”

“Moorpark Unified is a very rare school district,” Dr. Wagmeister said. “It’s thoughtful, student-centered, and not afraid of doing hard things for the right reasons. I’ve been lucky to work alongside colleagues who care deeply about students. I know Dr. La Belle will lead with clarity, integrity, and a deep understanding of what our schools and students need.”

Dr. La Belle earned her bachelor’s degree from California State University, Northridge, and her master’s and doctoral degrees in educational leadership from California Lutheran University. She lives in Moorpark with her husband, Matt, and their two daughters, who attend MUSD schools.