About Cindy

My journey in education began in the music classroom in Wisconsin, where I discovered the transformative power of connecting with students through creativity and expression. I taught African drumming and guitar to middle schoolers while serving on our PBIS team, learning early on that behavior support and belonging are inseparable from academic success.

I spent eight formative years at Charles Armstrong School in the Bay Area, a school specializing in supporting students with language-based learning differences. There I founded the band program (growing it from 10 to 40+ students), directed summer school, built partnerships with SF Opera and local high schools, and developed a deep understanding of how to help students who learn differently find their voice and confidence.

My path has taken me from Wisconsin to California to Hawaii and back, teaching and leading in diverse communities that reinforced the importance of strong relationships, cultural awareness, and helping students understand both the world around them and their own identities within it.

After completing my Master's at UC Berkeley's Principal Leadership Institute, I moved into school leadership—first in a dual role as Learning Specialist and administrative team member, and now as an Assistant Principal in San Francisco Unified School District. I'm driven by creating communities where students feel known, supported, and accountable.