Suzanne Nicastro has served as an educational leader on the Central Coast for the past three decades.  A 30-year veteran of California's public school system, she currently serves as Superintendent of Manzanita Public Charter School and is focused on expanding the Charter LEA’s population to a TK-8 model and building/renovating the existing school facilities.  

Suzanne’s educational philosophy is rooted in a firm belief that schools which remain student-centered (instead of adult centered) become places where both students and staff flourish. In short, she believes that all learners flourish when they are able to realize their hopes and dreams (kids and adults alike) and finds great joy in helping illuminate this path for others!

 

Suzanne has earned a B.A. in English from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a M.A. in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University.  She's been the recipient of a National Endowment of Humanities Award, Impact II Teaching Award, and Journalism Teacher of the Year Award. She's also a former Elementary, Middle, and High School Principal.

 

In her spare time, Suzanne enjoys writing and has published several articles.  She also published a book entitled, Who Says It's Wrong? Closing the Morality Gap in Public Education, which argues character deficits affect a person's ability to intellectually learn and perform. The book attempts to make the case for the adoption of a universal set of moral standards in each public school classroom.

 

Suzanne is married to the love of her life (Paul) for 39 years and, together, they raised 3 successful sons. She is happiest when spending time with her 5 grandchildren and her extended family and friends.  She also enjoys hiking on moderate trails and spending time in nature.