Dr. Michael Garcia joined AVID Center in 2024 and currently serves as Manager of Teaching and Learning for the Learning Programs, Products, and Services Team. Michael leads a team of innovative educational leaders, developing programs and services to enhance AVID implementation across our many AVID sites. Michael has spent over 20 years working for preK–12 public education with Mesa Public Schools in Arizona. Michael began his career as a secondary English/AVID teacher and AVID Coordinator at Mesa High School, where he played a pivotal role in the school achieving the/ prestigious status of an AVID National Demonstration School.

Michael then worked for Mesa Public Schools as their AVID District Director for 4 years before serving as the Director of Opportunity and Achievement for 6 years, where he led innovative change and high-quality professional learning experiences related to college, career, and community readiness. Michael has a proven track record of leading transformative change and facilitating professional learning for educators.

Michael holds an EdD in Educational Leadership from Arizona State University, with a dissertation focused on blended professional learning for AVID tutors. Michael’s commitment to education and passion for closing the opportunity gap continues to drive his work at AVID Center.

Michael Garcia

MANAGER,
TEACHING AND LEARNING