2026 has been a year of Olympic wins and brave protests, but for the Ojai Valley School, it has been a year of many farewells. Although these goodbyes bring many long and meaningful chapters to an end, with every closed door, a new one opens
Leland Fulton, the enthusiastic and much-appreciated teacher of Biology and AP Environmental Science, has been chosen to take on the responsibility of being Ojai Valley School’s new Director of the Upper Campus
His appointment follows an announcement by current Upper Campus Director Crystal Davis that she would be retiring at the end of this school year, bringing to an end her 40-year run of service to the school.
Mr. Fulton, who in addition to his teaching duties currently serves as Dean of Students, brings nearly two decades of educational experience – both in the public and private secretary – to his new role.
“I think he’s a great choice to lead OVS at this moment in time,” College Counselor Fred Alvarez said. “He brings great energy and a positive attitude toward all things OVS, and I look forward to benefiting from his leadership.”
Mr. Fulton has only been with the Ojai Valley School for a brief three years.
In this short amount of time, he has established himself as a thoroughly engaged faculty member, getting involved in outdoor education, school competitions, and track-and-field. Mr. Fulton is, overall, an impactful mentor for the students, bringing pride and joy to OVS.
Senior Shun Tateno reflected on his time with Mr. Fulton.
“I find Mr. Fulton a really reassuring and dependable teacher,” Shun said. “The enthusiasm and energy he brings to the classroom demonstrate his passion for the subject he is teaching.”
Despite the countless accolades one could heap upon Mr. Fulton, he also has some impressive credentials that express his overwhelming qualifications for this new, hefty position.
He received his Master’s degree in teaching from the University of Portland and earned his Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Studies at Southern Oregon University. He also minored in outdoor adventure leadership.
The degrees Mr. Fulton has dedicated his time to earning align brilliantly with OVS’s focus on educating the “whole child,” a philosophy that has long guided his work as a life science teacher and outdoor educator.
“Through hands-on learning and time spent exploring natural environments, I developed a strong belief in the power of the outdoors as a classroom,” Mr. Fulton said. “This has guided me toward a career focused on getting students outside, where they can build curiosity, confidence, and a lasting enthusiasm for the natural world.”
Mr. Fulton loves to surf, climb, and guide students on their outdoor adventures. He is a supportive husband, and loving father to his son, Elio.
He understands better than anyone what OVS stands for and hopes to teach its students. Students and faculty alike are excited to see what he will offer and accomplish in his new position as Director of Upper Campus.