SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. (JUNE 2, 2025) – South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) has hired Mike Mora to serve as the new assistant principal of South Pasadena Middle School (SPMS). Mora will replace Stephen Lewis, who is transitioning to a middle school in the South Bay after four years of excellent service to SPMS to be closer to his home and family.

For the past two years, Mora has served as assistant principal at Monterey Hills Elementary School. Last summer, he worked at South Pasadena High School as the Summer School principal. Prior to his tenure with SPUSD, Mora worked for thirteen years as a science and electives teacher at First Avenue Middle School in Arcadia.

“In a short time, Mr Mora has developed into an outstanding school administrator and shows great promise for a long career path,” said SPUSD Superintendent Geoff Yantz. “We thank him for his tremendous contributions to Monterey Hills, and we are looking forward to his transition to the middle school.”  

As the assistant principal at Monterey Hills, Mora facilitated student support meetings, worked to ensure a healthy, positive school environment for students, and managed student discipline using restorative justice practices. He brings instructional leadership skills developed through his work with school site councils and school leadership teams in Arcadia. As a former school site technology coach, Mora provided professional support to teachers, helped develop robotics curricula, and integrated technology into teaching through innovative practices.

Mora earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Northridge, a master’s degree in Education and Teaching from Azusa Pacific University, and an administrative credential from the University of California, Irvine. He looks forward to beginning his new role at South Pasadena Middle School on July 1, 2025. Congratulations to both Mr. Lewis and Mr. Mora on their new roles.

About South Pasadena Unified School District
Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,700 students within five schools, including three elementary schools, one middle school, and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California.  Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation for providing high-quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state, and national levels. The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs, and booster clubs.

For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, [email protected].