Academic Dean

Dear Fillmore Staff and Families,

I am so excited to introduce myself as the new Dean at Fillmore Elementary! From the moment I visited Fillmore, I could tell it was a special place. The kindness, school pride, and welcoming atmosphere made me feel right at home, and I feel incredibly grateful to be joining the Mustang family.

For the past 20 years, I've had the privilege of working with students and families in elementary education as a classroom teacher, Reading Intervention Teacher, Instructional Coach, Leadership Coach, Induction Mentor as well as many other coaching positions. I earned my bachelor's degree and teaching credential from Fresno State, my master's degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Design, and my administrative credential through the iLead Program. Along the way, I've had countless opportunities to learn, grow, and become a better educator and coach, and I'm excited to continue learning alongside the Fillmore community.

If there's one thing you'll quickly learn about me, it's that kids come first. Whenever I'm faced with a decision, I always come back to one question: What's best for kids? That simple question has guided me throughout my career, and it will continue to guide me here at Fillmore. I believe every student deserves to feel safe, supported, challenged, and like they belong.

I'm looking forward to partnering with our incredible staff and families to support the wonderful programs that make Fillmore such a great place to learn. I can't wait to celebrate our students' successes, encourage them through challenges, and help them discover just how capable they are.

You'll see me around campus greeting students in the morning, visiting classrooms, cheering kids on at school events, or simply stopping to say hello. Building relationships is one of my favorite parts of being an educator, and I hope you'll always feel comfortable reaching out. My door is always open, and I believe open and honest communication is one of the best ways we can build a strong relationships and work together for our kids 

Thank you for such a warm welcome. I truly can't wait to get to know all of you and begin this new school year together.

Here's to the Best School Year Ever!

Sara Rocha 

Dean of Student Engagement

Fillmore Elementary School

Lompoc Unified School District

(805)742-2100

rocha.sara@lusd.org