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Candidate statement for ACSA Vice President
February 2, 2026
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ACSA leaders will be voting for the office of ACSA vice president at the May Leadership Assembly, which will be held May 7, 2026 in Sacramento. The office of vice president puts the holder in the line of succession to ultimately become the ACSA president, as the following year they will become the president-elect, and subsequently president in 2028-29. The following is the statement from the candidate for ACSA vice president. One candidate who had previously declared their candidacy has withdrawn their name from the election: Yolanda Conaway, assistant superintendent, Ed Services, Equity and Student Affairs, Palo Alto USD.
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Diego Ochoa Superintendent, San Mateo-Foster City School District
As a proud ACSA member for over 20 years, I have experienced firsthand the power of this association to develop leaders, elevate voices, and advocate for students and educators across California. I am committed to ensuring that ACSA remains a force for connection, growth, equity, and impact statewide. ACSA’s brand of leadership is a promise to ensure every student, in every community, has access to opportunity, dignity, and a high-quality public education. I believe in ACSA because it has taught me to lead with conviction, clarity, and courage.
True equity leadership begins by listening — to rural and urban leaders, to site administrators and superintendents, to long-serving members and those just entering the profession. This is a time for bold, vocal leadership and unequivocal support for public education. As a former Region 5 President and current ACSA State Board Member, I have deepened my understanding of our organization, our members, and the daily challenges our members face. ACSA has taught me the importance of remaining grounded in relationships, trust, and shared responsibility.
If elected Vice President, I will prioritize:
  • Amplifying member voices.
  • Advocating for all students.
  • Expanding inclusive leadership pathways.
I humbly ask for your support and partnership!