I have been a part of the Palmdale family for a long time now. My family came to the United States in 1973, from Vietnam, and we moved to the city of Palmdale in 1974. I attended Yucca Elementary School for Kindergarten and 1st grade.  For 2nd through 5th grade, I was at Manzanita Elementary School. I then attended Sage Middle School for 6th through 8th grades.  I have so many great memories of my teachers and wonderful experiences in the Palmdale School District.

After graduating from California State University of Bakersfield in 1993, I started substitute teaching in the Palmdale and Lancaster School Districts. When I completed my teaching credential program, I began teaching in Lancaster. I spent 7 years teaching elementary students and 12 years teaching in the middle schools. I spent a total of 19 years doing what I love, educating children. In order to make a greater impact on students, I decided to return to school and earn a Master's in Educational Leadership.

In 2014, I was hired by the Palmdale School District to be an Assistant Principal. My first position was at Tamarisk Elementary School in the 2014-2015 school year. I was transferred to Shadow Hills Middle School where I served from 2015-2017. I was promoted to Principal at Joshua Hills Elementary School and served from 2017-2021. I was then transferred to Cactus Magnet Academy to be the new Principal beginning the 2021-2022 school year.

I look forward to a long career with the Palmdale School District helping to improve the educational experience for all students.

Erica Rodriguez

ejrodriguez@palmdalesd.org