Administration

Co-Principal

Yaneli Rivera

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 16th year in education, with six 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

Co-Principal

Christian Quintero, Ed. D.

Welcome to Sycamore Magnet Academy Middle School!

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as the co-principal of this incredible school community. Every day, I am reminded that Sycamore is more than just a school—it is a place where students are challenged to think critically, build meaningful relationships, discover their passions, and develop the confidence to make a positive impact in the world.

As an educator, I have dedicated over two decades to serving students, families, and schools in a variety of roles, including teacher, principal, district administrator, and county leader. Throughout my career, one belief has remained constant: every child deserves access to an exceptional education, high expectations, and adults who believe in their potential.

At Sycamore Magnet Academy, we are committed to preparing students not only for success in middle school, but for high school, college, careers, and life. We believe that students thrive when they are challenged academically, supported socially and emotionally, and given opportunities to communicate, collaborate, create, and solve real-world problems. Whether students are participating in our Dual Language Immersion Program, exploring media arts, engaging in rigorous academics, or developing leadership skills, our goal is to help every learner discover who they are and who they can become.

I also believe that educating children is a partnership. Families are an essential part of our success, and I encourage you to be actively involved in your child's educational journey. Together, we can create a school culture where every student feels safe, valued, challenged, and inspired to do their very best.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, staying active, reading, and continuously learning alongside educators from across the country. Those experiences remind me that learning never stops, and I strive to model that mindset for our students every day.

Thank you for trusting us with your children. It is a responsibility that our staff takes seriously and a privilege we deeply value. I look forward to partnering with you as we continue building a school where every student is known, challenged, supported, and prepared for a bright future.

Go Sycamore!

email — chquintero@tustin.k12.ca.us