Meet Peninsula's New Principal

Gunnar Lee• October 28, 2025

The start of this school year marks the beginning of a bold era for Peninsula as it embraces new leadership. Dr. Brent Kuykendall’s resignation as principal at the end of last year shocked many; his energetic direction transformed Peninsula’s image from a strictly competitive institution into a school that balances academic excellence with school spirit. After eight years under his leadership, both students and staff were eager to learn who would inherit the position, and continue Kuykendall’s legacy as a positive influence on the entire Peninsula community. Dr. Kyle Garrity was announced as Kuykendall’s successor in May and officially became principal on July 1. Junior Teddy Boustany shared his feelings of anticipation during the transitionary period.

"I was shocked at the news of Kuykendall's resignation," Boustany said. "He was beloved by the students and staff. His charisma and concern for our wellbeing left a lasting impact on us, [so] my friends and I were curious to see who the next principal would be. We were surprised when Dr. Garrity was chosen: we all expected [it to be] one of the teachers at Pen. But so far he has proven to be a worthy [successor].”

Despite his unexpected arrival, Dr. Garrity’s background proves he’s well-prepared to serve as Peninsula’s principal. He was born and raised in rural Montana, where educators were deeply involved in community life. Following in the example of his maternal grandmother, mother and brother, he decided to pursue a career in education. He went on to complete an undergraduate degree from Carroll College before receiving his masters in theological studies from Harvard University and a PhD in Education Policy at UC Riverside. With a passion for education and years of academic experience under his belt, Garrity started working as a social science teacher, baseball and football coach. During these 15 years he was also head of a teachers’ association and a coordinator for Peer Leaders Uniting Students (PLUS). His first promotion to an administrative position was at a school markedly different from Peninsula: an underfunded school with an underperforming student body plagued with student gangs. Garrity served as a member of the new school board responsible for overhauling the system and addressing the school’s varied problems. His later work as assistant principal at Redondo Union High School and later at Palos Verdes High School proved to be the opposite of his experience at Riverside; rather than having to start at rock bottom, Garrity now focused on improving the programs of the academically established institutions in a new area of California. Junior Jaden Song reflected on Dr. Garrity’s past job experiences.

“Dr. Garrity's resume makes him perfect for principal," Song said. "His work at various school districts makes him flexible [and] able to face all kinds of challenges. His early life proves his commitment to education and the school system. He also attended impressive colleges."

As soon as he became Peninsula’s new principal, Garrity sought to refine the school’s balance between academics, the arts and athletics. He is interested in improving curriculums by having them cater to the changing job market and improving the arts materials and athletic fields. He is also focused on increasing student connection and enthusiasm by encouraging students and staff alike to adopt a mindset that is focused on living in the moment. With this in mind, Garrity has implemented the new “Spirit Fridays”, seeking to increase student involvement, cultivate Panther Pride and end stressful weeks with a day dedicated to fun. In addition, Garrity has begun work on renovating the school campus itself, with plans to begin work on repainting the old buildings and modernizing technology on campus. Dr. Garrity spoke on the impact he wants to leave our campus.

“Ultimately, I always want to be remembered as a nice person who helped people be their best—in life and their profession—and find a way to make their journey easier. For teachers and staff, I hope to help them find connection with each other and joy in what they do,” Garrity said. “I hope [the students] remember me as a figure who supported and guided them to their happiness. I want them to leave this place thinking, ‘that guy cared about me’.”