Heath Rocha has completed his first academic year as the permanent superintendent of the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District, emphasizing that rebuilding trust with the community remains a central priority. He assumed the role earlier than anticipated after serving for a decade as the assistant superintendent of student services.
Rocha’s appointment followed the 2024 resignation of former Superintendent Bill Sanderson, which occurred amid tensions between parents and faculty regarding his leadership approach. Rocha noted that while he felt ready to take on the permanent position, the timing did not align with his personal plans. He described his decision as straightforward, stating he believed it was the right time and place for him to lead.
Before entering education administration, Rocha worked in a substance use clinic for adolescents, where he observed that many patients lacked early academic success before developing addictions. This experience motivated him to become a school counselor to impact youth earlier in their lives.
His career path included roles as a school psychologist in the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District and as the chief student support services officer in the Carmel Unified School District from 2010 to 2016.
Rocha stated that his primary strategy involves investing in relationships and focusing on what is best for students rather than personal agreement. He credited weekly classroom visits and availability by appointment with helping to foster trust among staff. He also noted that he had to work to regain the confidence of parents, particularly those involved in the music program at Saratoga High School.
To demonstrate support, Rocha attended performances and fundraisers that some parents feared would be canceled. He also accompanied students on an international trip to Japan, a move he said helped prove his commitment to following through on his words. He emphasized that open communication with student groups, parent organizations, and faculty was essential during the transition.