Vidya’s founding principal, John Hynes, now serves on the advisory board. He is currently the Head of School at Westside Christian High School just outside Portland, OR. In the 27 years he has served in education, he has been an assistant principal of academics at Chaminade High School (Chatsworth), Principal of Grace Brethren High School (Simi Valley), and adjunct faculty member at Moorpark Community College. He holds two Bachelor’s Degrees (English and Drama), two Master’s Degrees (English and Education), and is entering the defense phase for his Doctor of Education. He believes Vidya will be a school that sets students free to explore, grow, and learn in an environment that is so rich with thought, care, love and ethics that they will contribute to society in profound ways. John has long and endearing roots in the northwest San Fernando Valley – he grew up riding bikes and horses through the hills of what is now known as Porter Ranch.