Principal's Message

Dear Merdinian Families, Students, and Staff, 

 

It is with deep gratitude and great excitement that I begin my role as Principal of Charlotte and Elise Merdinian Armenian Evangelical School. For those I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting, my name is Arpi Avanesian, and I am honored to serve this faith-rooted community with its rich history, strong values, and genuine care for every student and family. 

 

As a proud graduate of an Armenian school and a lifelong member of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church, I carry with me a deep commitment to faith, heritage, and community. Over the past four decades, I have been privileged to serve as both a teacher and administrator in Armenian and non-Armenian schools throughout Los Angeles. Guiding and nurturing students has been at the center of my life’s work, and giving back to Armenian families remains my greatest calling. 

 

My connection to Merdinian began a few years ago, when I first stepped onto campus while leading the WASC accreditation process. From that first visit, I knew there was something special here, something that set Merdinian apart and drew me to become part of this family. Today, with God’s guidance, I am humbled to help lead our school to even greater heights. 

 

This year’s theme, “Faith Anchored,” calls us to move forward with steadiness, reflection, and trust in God. To me, it means remaining grounded in what matters most at Merdinian: teaching and learning. 

 

At the heart of my leadership is a student-centered philosophy built on two core beliefs: 

● Effort should always be at the forefront. More than natural ability, it is effort that leads to growth and success. 

● Every child has remarkable potential, and it is our responsibility to nurture, challenge, and support that potential each and every day. 

 

This year, my focus is to ensure that teaching and learning remain central to all we do. From curriculum and instruction to classroom culture and assessment, we will work together to inspire curiosity, perseverance, and a lifelong love of learning in every child. 

 

Of course, none of this would be possible without our dedicated faculty and staff. They are the foundation of Merdinian and the heart of its success. Their creativity, commitment, and care for our students make the difference each day. As principal, my promise is to support, encourage, and uplift our educators so they may continue to thrive as professionals and role models. 

 

Thank you for entrusting your children to Merdinian. Here, they are not only educated but also nurtured, loved, and raised with values that will guide them throughout their lives. I look forward to getting to know each of you, and I assure you, I will learn your names sooner than you think.

 

Together, let us make this a year filled with growth, joy, and purpose. With gratitude and anticipation, 

 

Arpi Avanesian 

Principal