A Note From the Principal

January 12, 2026

Dear CAH Families,

I am writing to share several important leadership updates at Coastal Academy High School and to clarify what these transitions mean for our school community. I recognize that leadership changes naturally raise questions, and my goal is to communicate openly while reinforcing the strength, stability, and thoughtful planning that define Coastal High.

As you may already know, Dana Moen, Principal of Classical Academy High School, will be retiring at the end of this school year after 23 years of dedicated service to The Classical Academies. As part of a deliberate and forward-looking planning process, our senior leadership team has carefully considered the needs of both high schools and our long-term vision for student success.

With this in mind, I am pleased to share that Samantha Martinez, current Principal of Coastal Academy High School, has accepted the role as the next Principal of Classical Academy High School, effective July 1, 2026. Samantha’s leadership has helped shape Coastal Academy High into the strong, values-driven school it is today, and she is excited to continue serving students and families across our high school network.

In addition, I also want to share that Assistant Principal Dana Lenahan has decided to retire after decades of dedicated service to students and staff, and Assistant Principal Chedly Benattia has decided to leave education to pursue a new role in healthcare administration. Both transitions will happen over the summer. We are deeply grateful to both Dana and Chedly for their contributions to Coastal Academy High and the profound care they have shown the Stingray community. 

While these transitions are occurring within the same year, we want to be clear that each decision was made independently and thoughtfully. These changes do not reflect instability or dissatisfaction, but rather personal and professional next steps for each leader.

I understand that multiple leadership changes can feel unsettling. I want to assure you that Coastal Academy High School remains a strong, stable, and thriving campus with an experienced, dedicated staff and a solid academic and cultural foundation. Network leadership is working closely with the Coastal Academy High administrative team to ensure continuity, clear communication, and a smooth transition.

Current leadership will remain in place through June 2026. In addition, we are moving forward with the following plan:

Immediate focus

• Begin the hiring process for a new Assistant Principal who can join the campus promptly and overlap with the current administrative team. 

Spring 2026

• Conduct a thorough and thoughtful search for the next Principal of Coastal Academy High School.

• Provide opportunities for collaboration and transition planning between outgoing and incoming leaders.

Ongoing

• Ensure strong administrative presence on campus.

• Maintain consistent routines, expectations, and support systems for students and staff.

• Communicate regularly with families as updates become available.

My priority is to ensure that Coastal Academy High continues to offer a stable, supportive, and enriching experience for every student. I am confident in the path ahead and grateful for your continued trust and partnership.

Coastal Academy High has always been defined by its people. The strength of this school is not rooted in a single role, but in a collective commitment to students, families, character, and one another. This community has navigated change before with professionalism and purpose, and we are confident in our ability to do so again.

Thank you for the work you do every day and for the steadiness you bring to our students and families. I am grateful to lead alongside you as we move forward together — Stingray Strong.

Thank you for being an essential part of the Coastal Academy High community.

In partnership,

Kurtis Indorf

Chief Executive Officer

The Classical Academies

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