In a celebration of educational excellence, three outstanding school leaders have been recognized by the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 7 and will advance to the state-level competition. These finalists—Mark Herbst, Patrick Rodden, and Antoinette Chambers—have demonstrated remarkable dedication to student success, equity, and school leadership.
Meet the Finalists
Mark Herbst, Associate Superintendent of Student Support Services
Category: Central Office Administrator
A transformative leader, Mark Herbst has played a pivotal role in integrating equity into all aspects of student services. Overseeing programs, such as Special Education, School Counseling, Expanded Learning, student attendance, and discipline. He has directly influenced student outcomes by ensuring access and equity in all aspects of his department. He spearheaded equity initiatives that led to significant improvements in grading policies, teacher diversity, and student inclusion. Herbst pioneered a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst plan for general education and advocated for the adoption of an inclusion initiative, now a District Strategic Goal for 2024-2027. His commitment to continuous growth is evident in his active participation in leadership coaching, where he seeks to improve his leadership behaviors and practices to better support his team. Herbst’s focus on inclusion extends beyond students with disabilities and creates a safe, inclusive environment for all students to succeed.
Patrick Rodden, Assistant Principal, Thomas Downey High School
Category: Secondary Co-Administrator
Patrick Rodden is a driving force in building a safe, inclusive, and positive school culture at Downey High School. His leadership in implementing the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program has significantly enhanced student engagement and behavior. As head of both the Safety and Cultural Committees, Rodden has ensured student voices are heard, and policies reflect a commitment to equity and inclusion.
Antoinette Chambers, Executive Secretary to the Board of Education
Category: Confidential Employee
A champion for equity and student advocacy, Antoinette Chambers has been instrumental in supporting Black Student Unions at the local, regional, and state levels. She has played a critical role in Modesto City Schools’ equity initiatives, assisting in workforce diversification, curriculum development, and student support programs. Her contributions have directly impacted historically marginalized students, ensuring they have the resources and representation needed to thrive.
Recognizing All Nominees
In addition to these finalists, the following individuals were nominated for their exceptional contributions to education:
Secondary Principal: David Sanchez, Thomas Downey High School
Middle Grades Principal: Francisco Guerrero, Mark Twain Junior High School
Elementary Principal: Marla Conteh, Bret Harte Elementary School
Elementary Co-Administrator: Jennifer Driskell, John Fremont Elementary School
Classified Leader: Daniel Nego, CIPD
Special Education Administrator: Beth Stehle, Special Education
Student Services Administrator: Dave Houck, Child Welfare & Attendance
Technology Officer: Misty Roton, IETS
Curriculum & Instruction Administrator: Maricela Mota, CIPD
Special Recognition
Superintendent Sara Noguchi, Ed.D., was honored with ACSA Region 7’s prestigious Bill Ullom Administrator of the Year Award, which recognizes a school leader exemplifying excellence in service to children and youth.
These leaders inspire our schools through their dedication to equity, innovation, and student-centered leadership. Their work is shaping the future of education.