Administration
Principal
Mr. James Benanti is thrilled to be the 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.
Mr. James Benanti
Assistant Principal
I am honored to join the Franklin Elementary family as your new Assistant Principal. With over 25 years of experience in elementary education, I am deeply committed to creating a warm, welcoming, and safe learning environment where every child can reach their full potential.
I am dedicated to supporting our amazing teachers and staff as we work together to ensure all students feel valued, encouraged, and EMPOWERed to succeed every day. I invite you to reach out to me with any ideas or concerns via email.
Nicole Howes