Noe Ochoa named principal of Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe

The Tempe Union High School District (TUHSD) Governing Board meeting on April 16, 2025, marked a significant moment for the Marcos de Niza High School community with the official announcement of Noe Ochoa as the new principal. Ochoa, who previously served as the assistant principal of academics, was selected to lead the school, becoming its tenth principal in history. His appointment comes at a time when Marcos de Niza is experiencing a positive trajectory, having recently received an "A" letter grade from the Arizona Department of Education and an "A+" designation from the Arizona Education Foundation.

In his introductory remarks, Ochoa expressed gratitude to his family, colleagues, and the community, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in achieving educational excellence. He acknowledged the support of his family, particularly his wife, Melissa, and highlighted the contributions of the school’s staff and former principals who have influenced his leadership style. Ochoa described his role as akin to that of a head coach, focusing on inspiring and guiding students and staff towards common goals.

Looking ahead, Ochoa committed to leading with pride and respect, addressing the challenges facing public education. He stressed the importance of high expectations for both teachers and students, aiming to foster an environment where academic growth and character development are prioritized. His pledge to the community reflects a dedication to collaboration and mutual respect among all members of the school.

In addition to Ochoa's appointment, the meeting recognized the accomplishments of the Corona del Sol High School's "We the People" team, which recently competed at the national finals in Virginia. This achievement underscores the district's commitment to civic education and the importance of understanding constitutional principles, a topic deemed increasingly relevant in today's society.

Overall, the meeting highlighted a pivotal transition in leadership at Marcos de Niza and celebrated the district's ongoing commitment to educational excellence and civic engagement. As Ochoa steps into his new role, the community looks forward to his leadership and the continued success of its schools.