SMCHS Welcomes Michelle Cho as Inaugural Assistant Principal of Innovation

It is with great enthusiasm Santa Margarita Catholic High School introduces Michelle Cho as the school's inaugural Assistant Principal of Innovation, a newly created leadership role. Cho brings a distinguished background in education, a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, and a proven record of leadership that will enhance and elevate the learning experience for students. Her expertise and forward-thinking vision will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the SMCHS community.

"We are honored to welcome Mrs. Cho to our community in this new role and look forward to the innovative leadership she will bring to students, faculty and families," said Principal Cheri Wood. "Her expertise and forward-thinking vision will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the SMCHS community. Please join us in warmly welcoming her as she embarks on this exciting new journey with us."

With an extensive background in education policy, governance and strategic planning, Cho has dedicated her career to enhancing school leadership and fostering innovation. She holds a master’s in education policy from Harvard Graduate School of Education and a bachelor’s in economics, finance, and public policy from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Her academic foundation, coupled with her strategic vision, makes her a valuable addition to our leadership team. Cho's distinguished career spans various leadership roles, including executive director at East Bay Innovation Academy, education and finance consultant, and instructor at the Fels Institute of Government, University of Pennsylvania, where she taught financial accounting and nonprofit management.

Cho is a visionary leader dedicated to advancing technology-driven education and harnessing artificial intelligence to transform learning experiences, personalize instruction, enhance student engagement, and prepare learners for the digital future. In addition to her expertise in AI and innovation, she possesses strong leadership in governance, stakeholder communication, and policy development, allowing her to drive strategic decision-making and foster tech-enabled educational environments. Her ability to mentor school leaders and provide guidance on implementing cutting-edge solutions has made her a respected figure in the field, ensuring that schools remain at the forefront of innovation.

This school year, Mrs. Cho has worked closely with SMCHS leadership as a consultant, guiding the school’s integration of generative AI both effectively and ethically, rooted in our Christ-centered educational mission. Her contributions include helping to establish the AI Task Force and AI policies, collaborating with faculty to offer impactful professional development in AI integration and media literacy, and engaging students through curriculum and dialogue on responsible media consumption and digital awareness. Most recently, she partnered with our administration, Director of Educational Technology Jorge Ledezma, and members of our faculty and student body to lead a well-received on-campus AI professional development summit that welcomed nearly 50 educators from across the region for a dynamic day of learning.

Beyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Cho is an accomplished researcher and published author, contributing to studies on education reform, military childcare and governance strategies. Her service extends beyond her career, as she actively volunteers in organizations such as the Dream Tree Orphanage in Korea, Corpus Christi Catholic Church, and the Boy Scouts of America. Her dedication to education, service and faith exemplifies our values at Santa Margarita Catholic High School.

What’s something people may be surprised to learn about you?
I worked or volunteered in every continent except Antartica, Australia and South America.

Do you have a favorite book, podcast or something else that inspires your work or creativity?
Excellence and beauty in anything and everything inspire me.

What brings you joy outside of work? How do you like to spend your free time?
I enjoy good burgers and conversations, hiking along the beaches and canyons, taking in art of all forms, and cheering on my favorite teams: Tottenham Hotspurs, LA Dodgers, Fighting Irish and SM Eagles!

Do you have a favorite biblical verse that guides you? The Road to Emmaus, Luke 24:13-35. "Were our hearts not burning within us when He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the Scriptures to us?”

Tell us a little bit about your family? My husband Tom and I both grew up in Orange County and met in Boston. We have a son (away at college), a daughter (9th grade), and a 6 year-old Shih-Tzu. Most of us love playing sports, while the rest of us (myself and the dog) love to watch and cheer them on.

What is your hope for the next generation of learners?
My hope for the next generation of learners are that they will spend their time at SM building strong foundations to fulfill their purpose and calling in life, in service of humanity. Specifically, I hope they will find and strengthen their own voice, take pride and faith in preparation through hard work, and refine their moral compass and resolve to act on their values. I also hope they will enjoy learning for learning's sake. Education at higher levels are increasingly becoming transactional, and I hope they won't miss out on the joy of discovery and growth, which is at the very heart of this very human endeavor.     

What are some of your goals in this role?
I plan to facilitate robust information flow with upstream (higher ed, professions) and downstream (K-8) institutions. I'd love to explore ways to integrate more experiential learning, strengthen pathways to STEM majors and careers, and support all stakeholders adapt to emerging technologies and consider its implications for teaching and learning. I also look forward to piloting new ideas and strategies to improve student learning outcomes.

How do you see generative AI transforming the classroom experience?
I see a huge potential for personal and deeper learning that emerging technologies will facilitate, and I also see an opportunity to double down on what makes education so powerful and transformative — personal relationships where students feel seen by teachers and peers. There will be growing pains for sure, including misuse of technology. We must acknowledge and confront these pains for what they are and move forward to a future that takes these realities into account.

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?
I'm looking forward to all the conversations and strengthening of bridges connecting students, faculty, staff, parents, guardians, alumni, higher ed, and practioners in industry. I also want to support all stakeholders in managing change. Change can be hard for most of us, but it can be made easier with support and I want to facilitate that for SM.

What skills do you believe students need the most to thrive in the future, and how do you see your role supporting that? 
Digital fluency and critical thinking skills to navigate and evaluate the digital world, relational and communication skills to work with and for others, and confidence to tackle new problems, trusting in their preparations and experiences.