Administration

Mr. James Benanti is thrilled to be the new Principal at Franklin Elementary School.

Prior to his appointment at Franklin, he served for four years as an Assistant Principal at Redlands High School where he oversaw athletics, facilities, maintenance, counseling and scheduling. Before moving into administration, Mr. Benanti served for 19 years as the Director of Instrumental Music at RHS. During his tenure, the instrumental program tripled in size and is still the largest co-curricular program on campus. Ensembles under his direction regularly received Unanimous Superior ratings at festivals, and students represented Redlands High School in honor groups at the local, regional, state, and national levels.  Mr. Benanti has served as an adjudicator with the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association, and a member of the San Bernardino County Music Educators’ Association, serving as President from 2008-2010, guest conductor for the Middle School Honor Orchestra in 2015, and guest conductor for the Middle School Honor Band in 2022. He has been on the Music Education faculties of the University of Redlands, and California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.  Mr. Benanti has also directed professional performances at the California Theatre for the Performing Arts in San Bernardino. Since 2013, he has served as the music director and conductor of the Redlands Community Orchestra.

Mr. Benanti earned his Bachelor and Master of Music Education degrees from the University of Redlands, and his Administrative Services Credential from California State University, San Bernardino.  He is a Past-President of Town and Gown at the University of Redlands, and serves on the Board of Directors at Kimberly Crest.  Mr. Benanti is also the incoming President of the University of Redlands Alumni Board of Directors, and sits on the University’s Board of Trustees.

Hello Franklin Families,
My name is Deborah “Annie” Ynda, and I’m honored to serve the Franklin Elementary community in my second year as an administrator in the Redlands Unified School District.

I’ve worked in education since 2007, teaching various elementary grade levels and serving as an ELD Coordinator in multiple regions across California. I hold a Master’s degree in Bilingual Education from the University of California, Riverside, and I’m passionate about supporting language learners and ensuring all students have the tools they need to succeed.

As a service-oriented leader, I deeply value building strong relationships, fostering meaningful community partnerships, and creating a school environment where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to grow.

I look forward to another wonderful year of learning, connection, and growth together!

With Gratitude,
Deborah “Annie” Ynda