Dear Students and Families,

We, at San Elijo Middle School, are focused on Exploration, Discovery, and Growth through Connections, Complexity, Collaboration, and Character. We achieve this through excellent programs such as our music and arts program, athletics, extra curricular activities, and highly qualified teaching in each of our core subject areas.  We are proud to be the Golden Eagles and welcome everyone to be a part of our outstanding community.

I come to the Golden Eagles Nest with over 20 years of educational experience. I’ve spent the past 6 years as an Assistant Principal at Pacific Trails Middle School and Canyon Crest Academy. Prior to my roles in administration, I worked as a Special Education Teacher in both the middle and high school settings. Whether I’ve been an administrator, teacher, or parent, I believe collaboration based on our collective strengths helps us to make student-centered decisions that encourage a positive school community and inspire excellence in education. 

On a personal note, I grew up in Hawaii and have a strong belief in the concept of ‘Ohana,’ which embodies the values of community, integrity, and respect in every aspect of life. My Ohana at home is filled with the joy and love of two elementary aged boys and a supportive husband.

I would also like to introduce the SEMS Administrative Team:

This year we welcome Jennifer Gutierrez as our newest Assistant Principal to our Administrative team. She has been serving at Woodland Park Middle School for the past 7 years as Assistant Principal, and prior to that she served at San Marcos High School. She is also the mom to a freshman at Mission Hills High School and a college student. She loves middle school so much that she is in the Joint Doctoral Program (UCSD/CSUSM) researching school system design, practices, and pedagogies that are responsive to the needs of early adolescent learners. 

Cheryl Sestito continues to serve as Assistant Principal for our SEMS community as well. She moved to California 17 years ago, where she taught at both Mission Hills High School and San Marcos High School before joining the SEMS administration team in August 2021. More than anything, she loves spending time with her family: her husband, her 7th grade son, her 9th grade daughter, and her cat! She has a passion for quality, engaging instruction that brings forth each child’s individual strengths and is excited to serve our students again this year!

Sincerely,

Tricia Storey

Principal, San Elijo Middle School