Greetings Families and Community! 

 

It’s my honor and privilege to be the principal of Santa Cruz Gardens Elementary. SCG has been my educational and professional home for many years and I’m eager to see it thrive! 

 

I have been a public school educator and educational program leader for 15 years. I began as a bilingual fifth grade teacher in Austin, Texas. I’ve taught at a Montessori and International Baccalaureate School in the Virgin Islands. However, I have spent the majority of my teaching here in the Soquel Union Elementary School District at Santa Cruz Gardens. Throughout my public education career, I have taught all elementary grades, and most of my experience has been in the upper grade classroom. I have taught and co-coordinated dances, played music in a teacher band for school events and assemblies, and I have facilitated a lot of events, series, and community-builders. I have great memories at Santa Cruz Gardens and I look forward to making many more together! 

 

I am well-versed as an instructional coach in all of our current curricula, and I am a big proponent and shaper of the growth of our school’s SAGE (Science And Gardening Emphasis) program. I also have professional experience leading our district’s Behavioral Inclusion Team. This time was spent collaborating with students and staff to customize evidence-based care frameworks for children who have benefited from additional support and attention to their Social Emotional and Behavioral well-being.  

 

We have so much greatness and so much potential here at the Gardens. The community is amazing and unlike any other I’ve worked with. We have diversity, dedication, and a lot of care and joy! 

 

I am very excited to bring a positive and joyful atmosphere to our campus, a love of many cultures and arts, and a dedication to the love of learning… Both in the classroom and outside. We have access to an amazing trail system, and outdoor learning spaces. We have trained and dedicated teachers and staff that lead with care and a love for science and the outdoors.  

 

In short, I am passionate about education as the opener of doors, minds, and hearts. I am passionate about the cultural arts, the outdoors, and kindness. And I am passionate about building our SCG team and community around the success and joy of your children and our students! 

 

By browsing through our website’s homepage, you will learn more about Santa Cruz Gardens Elementary, the SAGE program, and the learning advantages our school offers. If you have any comments, queries, or collaborative ideas, you are most welcome to discuss them with me any time. 

 

Office phone: 831- 464- 5670

Email: calbano@suesd.org