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Leaders Learn | The Strategic Partnership: Superintendents and School PR in Action
May 07, 2026
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Become a MemberIn this Leaders Learn conversation, we’ll hear directly from a superintendent–communications team about how they work together to lead their district with clarity, consistency, and trust. Together, they’ll share how their partnership has evolved, how they navigate complex decisions, and what it takes to align messaging, leadership, and community expectations. This no-slides, facilitated discussion will offer both perspectives: what superintendents need from their communications leaders, and how communicators can elevate their role as trusted partners in district leadership. Join us for a candid, practical conversation designed to help you strengthen your own leadership relationships and impact.
Moderator: Barbara Hunter, APR, NSPRA Executive Director
Panelists:
Tanya de la Cruz, Public Information & Engagement Officer, Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District (Calif.)
Heath Rocha, Superintendent, Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District (Calif.)
Agenda
Speakers
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Heath Rocha
<p><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(34,34,34);font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:small;">Heath Rocha serves as Superintendent of the Los Gatos–Saratoga Union High School District (LGSUHSD), one of California’s top-ranked school districts and the only K–12 or high school district in the state to earn a perfect score on the California Dashboard in 2025. A career educator with a deep commitment to student and staff well-being, Heath leads with empathy, service, and connection, believing that strong relationships are the foundation of successful school communities.</span><br><br><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(34,34,34);font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:small;">Prior to becoming Superintendent, Heath spent nine years as Assistant Superintendent of Student Services at LGSUHSD, where he led initiatives to support at-risk students and students with disabilities. In response to rising post-pandemic mental health needs, he spearheaded the creation of Wellness Centers at each high school, contributing to a more than 40% decrease in students reporting persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. He also led districtwide efforts to strengthen Title IX policies and training, resulting in a more than 50% reduction in reports of sexual harassment.</span><br><br><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(34,34,34);font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:small;">Heath began his career as a school psychologist and has held leadership roles including Coordinator, Director of Special Education, and Chief Student Services Officer. Known for his approachable leadership and problem-solving mindset, he focuses on removing barriers to learning and creating a culture where staff feel valued and supported, because when educators feel safe and appreciated, students thrive and districts grow stronger.</span></p>
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Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District | - |
| Tanya De La Cruz | Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District | - |