Sycamore Magnet Academy
Administration
Co-Principal
Dr. Estela Salas-Sarmiento has served in public education for more than 25 years. She joined TUSD from Centralia Elementary School District where she served as principal of Raymond Temple Elementary School.
“I am excited to join Sycamore Magnet Academy as the new principal,” said Dr. Salas-Sarmiento. “I’ve loved teaching primary and middle school; the opportunity to lead a TK-8 school is a dream come true. I cannot wait to meet the SMA family and continue to develop world-class programs under one unified mission and vision.”
Dr. Salas-Sarmiento began her career in the Downey Unified School District, where she taught for 20 years, served as an English Learning Development (ELD) Coordinator, and led the ELD department for Sussman Middle School for five years. Prior to her current position as principal at Raymond Temple Elementary, she served as an assistant principal at Craig Williams Elementary school in the Bellflower Unified School District.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Salas-Sarmiento to the TUSD Family,” said Superintendent Mark Johnson. “She has a strong track record as a site principal, and her ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, parents, and the community is exemplary. I am highly confident that her attitude of service and willingness to form positive relationships with all stakeholders will allow SMA to continue doing tremendous work!
Dr. Salas-Sarmiento has a Bachelors in Liberal Studies with Spanish minor, a teaching credential with a bilingual crosscultural authorization (BCLAD), a Master’s in Education: Multicultural Education, from California State University Dominguez Hills, a Doctorate in K-12 Leadership from California State University Fullerton, and a management certificate from Harvard Business School.
email — esalassarmiento@tustin.k12.ca.us
Co-Principal
As Principal of Sycamore Magnet Academy, I am dedicated to creating an environment where every child feels valued, respected, and supported. Our committed teachers, involved parents, and innovative students make our school a thriving, community, nurturing tomorrow's global leaders.
This is my 15th year in education, with five years in administration, I hold a Bachelor’s in Communications and Master’s degrees in Educational Leadership and Educational Technology. I am passionate about building strong relationships with students and families to ensure the best opportunities for success. I believe in fostering a sense of belonging for all students and parents while promoting collaboration among teachers to deliver high-quality education that meets the diverse needs of our elementary learners. My goal is to create a respectful and empowering community for everyone at Sycamore.
In addition to being principal, I am also a mother of two boys. Mr. Rivera and I enjoy spending time outdoors with our children, especially camping by a lake so we can fish together. As a parent, I deeply understand the importance of creating a school environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. I often reflect on how I want my own children to feel at school—supported, encouraged, and part of a strong community—and I bring those same principles to Sycamore Magnet Academy. My goal is to ensure that every student feels the same sense of belonging and care, helping them thrive both academically and personally in a nurturing, collaborative environment.
email — yrivera@tustin.k12.ca.us
Assistant Principal
Dear Wolfpack Family,
It is an honor and privilege to introduce myself as the incoming Assistant Principal of Sycamore Magnet Academy. I am humbled to join this incredible school and continue the tradition of excellence that SMA is known for. A common theme at SMA that I continue to hear about is the positive culture and community that you each contribute to, and the care that you have for our students and our community. I am excited to join your team of truly outstanding families, students, educators and committed support staff.
I have been in education for 10 years, 8 of which have been in the Tustin Unified School District where I began my educator career as a World Language teacher at Beckman High School School. Over the past two years, I have had the privilege to serve as Assistant Principal at Esperanza High School.
On a personal note, I am married and have three children. We enjoy getting outside and doing outdoor activities like going to the beach, hiking, and going for walks or running.
email — jmiranda@tustin.k12.ca.us