Principal's Message
Dear Santa Fe Families,
It is with great excitement and heartfelt gratitude that I introduce myself as the new Principal of Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School. I am truly honored to join this wonderful community and look forward to working in partnership with you to support every student’s growth, well-being, and success.
Over the course of my 30-year career in education, I’ve come to understand what makes a school truly thrive: a strong sense of community, a shared commitment to excellence, and a belief that every child can succeed. As an educational leader, my focus has always been on creating environments where students feel safe, supported, and inspired, and where educators and families work together as partners in learning.
Prior to joining Santa Fe, I served eight years as an administrator in the Monrovia Unified School District, where I worked alongside talented teachers and staff to raise student achievement through data-driven instruction, collaboration, and professional learning. Together, we earned some of the highest performance levels on the California Dashboard. I’ve also served in a variety of other leadership roles, all of which have shaped my belief in the power of teamwork and continuous improvement.
Outside of school, I’ve always been an active member of my community, volunteering with many youth organizations like AYSO, Santa Anita Little League, and Girl Scouts of America. As a parent and a professional, I understand how important it is to nurture both academic and personal growth in our children, and to work closely with families every step of the way.
This year, my top priority is to get to know the students, staff, and families of Santa Fe. I’m here to listen, to learn, and to lead—with transparency, integrity, and heart. I believe that the strength of a school lies in its people, and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with each of you.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or simply want to say hello. You can reach me anytime at
mcostarella@
Warm regards,
Michele Costarella
Principal
Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School