Superintendent Diego Ochoa began his tenure  with the San Mateo-Foster City School District (SMFCSD) in June 2021. Since then, he has led the development of a comprehensive 5-year Strategic Plan, engaging more than 70 stakeholders including teachers, staff, administrators, labor partners, parents, and community organizations. This collaborative effort reflects his commitment to inclusive, forward-thinking leadership that prioritizes student success and community input.

District Innovation and Staff Development

Under Superintendent Diego Ochoa’s leadership, the San Mateo-Foster City School District has introduced several impactful initiatives to enhance communication, staff support, and student achievement. The district launched the oneSMFC podcast, redesigned its websites, introduced Board/Community Workshops, and created YouTube livestream events to better connect with families and community members. Ochoa has also successfully negotiated collective bargaining agreements that ensure annual pay raises, reinforcing his belief that SMFCSD has some of the most talented and dedicated educators and administrators.

Superintendent Ochoa has prioritized fair and competitive compensation for district employees by successfully completing collective bargaining agreements that secure annual pay raises. He firmly believes that SMFCSD is home to the best teachers, staff, and administrators. To support professional growth, he implemented a paid 5-day summer professional development program for teachers—an initiative designed to elevate instructional quality and career satisfaction. Additionally, Ochoa has overseen implementation of key educational systems, including a data accountability framework, heterogeneous math pathways, trauma-informed practices, and restorative justice approaches. These efforts reflect his deep focus on equity, inclusion, and student wellness.

Extensive Experience and Service

Active in community associations, he has served as CALSA Region 1 Director, ACSA State Board of Director, ACSA Region 5 President, and San Mateo County ACSA Charter President. Superintendent Ochoa has 24 years of educational experience as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, director, executive director, and superintendent. He has a strong background in curriculum, instruction, special education, equity, student wellness, parent engagement, and school facilities. Superintendent Ochoa previously served as Superintendent of both the Esparto Unified School District and the Hollister School District. Ochoa earned his Bachelor of Arts, Special Education Teaching Credential, and Master of Arts in Education from California State University San Marcos. Superintendent Ochoa also studied in the Urban K-12 Educational Leadership joint doctoral program at the University of California, Irvine. Superintendent Ochoa is currently ex-officio Board Member of the San Mateo-Foster City Education Foundation.

Annual Report               OneSMFC Podcast