Tabitha Thigpen has thrived in numerous leadership roles during her 25-year career in education, which began at King/Drew Magnet High School of Medicine and Science in Compton, CA as a high school French Teacher. Ms. Thigpen immersed students in the rich histories, customs and cultures of the francophone world, extended her classroom and traveled with students to Paris, France so that they could put into practice what they had learned. As magnet coordinator, she ensured that the Medicine and Science Careers program remained a unique opportunity for experiential learning for students for over a decade. She feels that King/Drew’s success is directly related to the strong collaboration of community partnerships and the dedicated faculty who continue to hold high expectations for all. She holds a B.A. in French and Political Science from Howard University in Washington DC. and a M.A. in Cross-Cultural Teaching and her administrative credential from Cal State University Dominguez Hills. She is currently the proud principal of Richland Avenue School. Ms. Thigpen has a daughter, Marley, who is currently a Junior in high school.