Deputy Superintendent Roger Goatcher
Roger Goatcher is a compassionate and dedicated leader whose career in education has been marked by a lifelong commitment to serving students, staff, and families. With over 25 years of experience, his journey has been guided by a central question: How can I do more for more kids?
Roger’s path began with his dream of becoming a teacher. Straight out of college, he started his career as a continuation high school teacher in Ceres before transitioning to middle school, where he taught history, electives, and technology classes while coaching basketball and track. It was during this time that his principal encouraged him to explore leadership roles, planting the seed for what would become a remarkable trajectory in educational administration.
Roger completed his undergraduate studies in Political Science at Cal Poly before pursuing a Masters in Educational Leadership from St. Mary’s University, which further deepened his commitment to leadership in education.
His career progressed through roles as vice principal at French Camp Elementary and principal at Walter Woodward Elementary School, where he embraced the opportunity to make a greater impact. “Each step was about doing more for more kids,” Roger reflects. His journey took on new meaning when his own children were diagnosed with disabilities, inspiring him to deepen his focus on special education. This led to his role as Director of Special Education, where he worked tirelessly to ensure that every student received the support they needed to succeed.
In 2016, Roger became Deputy Superintendent of Manteca Unified School District, where his leadership continues to focus on equity and meeting students’ unique needs. “Public education takes all kids—no exceptions,” Roger says. “Every child needs something a little different, and our job is to identify those needs and address them with care and support.”
Roger is most proud of initiatives that focus on underserved students, ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. “We are here to serve the whole community,” he explains. “I believe in the power of public education to bring people together—regardless of background—and provide pathways to success.”
A first-generation college graduate himself; Roger understands the transformative power of education. His personal philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student deserves the chance to achieve their potential, and that strong schools build strong communities.
As a leader, Roger is guided by principle-centered leadership, emphasizing purpose, integrity, and leading by example. “The means do justify the ends,” he says. “How we approach our work shows who we are and what we care about. I strive to model that every day.”
Roger’s unwavering dedication and belief in the promise of every child continue to shape the culture of Manteca Unified School District, ensuring its schools remain places of opportunity, inclusivity, and excellence.