Milpitas High School welcomed a new assistant principal this year, Dr. Destanie Ochs, who brings a wealth of experience, and a vision for empowering students and staff.
“I’m most excited about the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with students, staff, and the school community,” she added her excitement about joining the Trojan community.
“I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to support the school’s mission and help students achieve their full potential,” Ochs added.
From a young age, Ochs knew she wanted to work with children.
“As a little girl, I would line up my stuffed animals and teach them, pretending I was their teacher,” Ochs said.
Over time, her passion for helping others grow and guiding them to see their potential deepened. “There wasn’t a single moment, but rather a collection of experiences that solidified my calling to work in education,” Ochs added.
Reflecting on her own school experiences, Ochs shared that they shaped her perspective as an educator. “Up until high school, school was rough for me. I wasn’t a particularly strong student,” Ochs said.
However, during her freshman year, she had a turning point when she realized she couldn’t participate in sports without meeting GPA requirements. “I loved athletics, and that realization drove me to buckle down, work hard, and improve my grades so I could stay on the team,” Ochs said.
She described this as a life-changing moment that taught her perseverance, discipline, and the importance of goal-setting, Ochs said. For Ochs, the most rewarding moments of her career come from the connections she builds with students, Ochs added
“When a student trusts me enough to share their struggles or seek advice, it reaffirms why I chose this path,” Ochs said.
She described one experience with a struggling student who turned things around with consistent support, Ochs said. As the new assistant principal, Ochs shared her plans to foster a positive and inclusive school culture, Ochs added.
“By the end of the year, he was not only passing but thriving,” Ochs said. “My vision is to foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture,” Ochs said. “I aim to be a visible and approachable leader who supports both students and staff in creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.”
. “My approach is to meet students where they are and take the time to understand their interests, challenges, and goals,” Ochs added to her commitment to connecting with students personally. “Building trust and showing genuine care are at the core of my connection with students.”
Looking to the future, Ochs shared her hopes for her impact at Milpitas High, Ochs said.
“I hope to leave a legacy of empowerment and inspiration, where every student knows they are seen, valued, and capable of achieving great things,” Ochs said. “I want students to walk away with the lasting belief that they matter and that they can do this,” Ochs added.