Larika Clark
High School Principal | Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Mrs. Clark was born and raised in Long Beach, California, and has dedicated her life to helping students navigate through the educational system to experience academic success. She earned her Master’s of Science Degree in Educational Leadership along with an Administrative Services Credential. She also has a Master's of Arts Degree in Physical Education and a Bachelor's Degree in Dance and Theater Arts.
In the 2023-2024 school year, Mrs. Clark accepted the role of High School Principal. Mrs. Clark’s goal is to continue enhancing New West’s reputation of academic excellence by expanding access and opportunities for all students.
In 2019, Mrs. Clark was honored to accept the role of Assistant Principal of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in 2019. She has led New West’s school-wide DEI initiatives to ensure that equitable learning opportunities are provided for all students including creating a school culture that allows for students to have a voice, feel valued and affirmed.
Prior to joining the Administration team, Mrs. Clark taught high school dance at New West for eight years. She was the Visual and Performing Arts Chair leading the Art students to many national championships. Mrs. Clark enjoyed planning field trips, off-campus competitions, workshops, fundraisers, and performances. Supporting students to achieve their dance career goals was a passion of Mrs. Clark. She often volunteered on the college audition committees to understand the necessary skills needed to obtain college dance scholarships. With Mrs. Clark's support, students have obtained dance scholarships from colleges such as UCLA, USC, UC Santa Barbara, Chapman, Long Beach State, Rutgers, and many more.
Mrs. Clark will continue to strive to build and sustain a diverse and equitable community for all students. It is her goal to expose students, faculty, and staff to a wide range of ideas, experiences, and cultures, as well as enhance the learning experience that reflects the school's educational mission of providing students with an individualized education for the 21st-century.