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Superintendent

Welcome to the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District!

As we reflect on the progress and accomplishments of our school community, I want to express my deepest gratitude to every member of our district—students, staff, families, and partners. Your unwavering commitment and dedication to our shared mission have helped create a learning environment where our students are growing academically and are also supported in all aspects of their development.

At the heart of everything we do are our guiding principles, which drive our daily efforts and decisions:

  • Student Learning and Well-Being: We remain focused on fostering an environment where all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Every decision we make is with the goal of supporting the individual needs of our students, ensuring that they are prepared for success now and in the future.
     
  • Safety of Students and Staff: The safety and security of our students and staff is our top priority. We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming space for learning, where all members of our community feel supported and protected. This is not only crucial to student success but essential to creating a positive school culture.
     
  • Equitable Access to a Quality Educational Program: We believe that every student, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves access to a high-quality education. Our goal is to provide opportunities for all students to reach their full potential through a rigorous, standards-based curriculum, and to ensure that every learner has the best instruction, resources and support they need to succeed.

Thank you again for your continued dedication and support. Together we are making a difference in the lives of our students and building a school community where greatness grows —a place where all students have the opportunity to realize their dreams and achieve their potential. I am excited for the bright future we are creating together.

With sincere appreciation,

Antonio Garcia
Superintendent 

Mr. Antonio Garcia

Antonio Garcia Superintendent

Antonio Garcia has served as Superintendent of the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District since January 2020. Before coming to Santa Maria, he held several leadership roles in the Riverside Unified School District, including Assistant Superintendent of Professional Growth Systems, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, High School Principal, and Middle School Principal. He also supported school leadership countywide as a Principal in Residence for the Riverside County Office of Education.

Mr. Garcia began his educational career as a high school teacher in the Whittier Union High School District, located in the Los Angeles area where he grew up. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Stanford University and a Master’s degree from Brown University. He and his wife Maria, a Spanish teacher, are proud parents of two daughters.