Modesto City Schools Superintendent

Sara Noguchi

Sara Noguchi, Ed.D
Superintendent
Noguchi.S@mcs4kids.com

Meet Dr. Sara Noguchi

Dr. Sara Noguchi has served as the 17th Superintendent of Modesto City Schools since June 2018. With over 30 years of experience in education, Dr. Noguchi is dedicated to promoting equity, social justice, and the success of every student. Her career has included diverse roles, from teacher to chief executive in various communities. 

A transformative leader in advancing equity and social justice, Dr. Noguchi spearheaded the Equity and Racial Justice Task Force at Modesto City Schools. This task force has driven significant policy, practice, and procedural changes within the district, fostering an inclusive student environment. 

Passionate about the power of professional development to enhance student outcomes, Dr. Noguchi established the Curriculum and Instruction Professional Development Department at Modesto City Schools. Her vision emphasizes collaboration and knowledge sharing among site administrators and instructional leaders, empowering educators to drive student success. 

Under Dr. Noguchi’s leadership, the district has implemented numerous innovative initiatives, including: 

  • Expanding Gifted and Talented Education programs to all elementary schools 

  • Enhancing before and after-school programs 

  • Introducing a broader range of activities and athletics at junior high schools 

  • Implementing robust Career Technical Education programs 

  • Advancing sustainability initiatives, such as solar power installations, outdoor learning environments, and electric bus purchases 

Dr. Noguchi's strategic foresight led to the creation of a data-rich metrics dashboard, providing teachers and principals with reliable tools for informed decision-making. Her efforts have also resulted in increased district enrollment and the establishment of a multi-tiered support system in elementary and secondary schools. Also, under her leadership, the district has passed bond measures for both the elementary and high school districts, transforming the teaching and learning environments for students. 

Dr. Noguchi's professional affiliations include: 

  • Board Director for the Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) 

  • Board Member for the Professional Development Coalition 

  • Representative for the Advisory Council of the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE) 

  • Member of the California Association of Suburban School Districts (CALSSD) 

  • Member of the Superintendent Advisory Council for the California School Board Association (CSBA) 

  • Member of the Northern California Superintendents’ Network 

Dr. Noguchi holds a Doctor of Education Administration and Supervision and an Administrative Services Credential from the University of the Pacific, a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from California State University, Sacramento, and a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from San Diego State University. She is also a proud mother of three children and grandmother of two.