Carden’s principal recognized for service

Edith Hanlon has been principal of Carden Academy of Huntington Beach for the past 25 years, and while she said she isn’t ready to leave yet, it is time to celebrate.

According to Carden Academy owner Carol Van Asten, the school will be recognizing Hanlon for her years of service to the school at 9 a.m. today.

“She’s absolutely wonderful. She relates to teachers, kids and parents,” Van Asten said.

The USC graduate said she began teaching at Carden’s Huntington Beach school at its opening 28 years ago and, according to Van Asten, co-pioneered the Carden philosophy of learning, which puts emphasis on basic reading skills at a young age.

“You just feel, after having your own children, that you have the opportunity to work with children and help them make good choices,” Hanlon said.

Hanlon is a busy woman, Van Asten said, spearheading the yearbook and overseeing Carden’s student counsel.

She also founded Spirit Day, which encourages friendly competition through various physical education skills.

The festivities will include students singing, dancing from the third-, fourth- and seventh-graders as well as various guest speakers.

Hanlon said she has had students ask to interview her and take her picture for the event and is grateful for the recognition, but is nervous about the actual event.

“I have butterflies like when I got married,” Hanlon said.

— Britney Barnes