About me
Michele Tsutagawa Ward was elected to the Board of Trustees in 2022. She earned her teaching credential from UC Davis in 1999 and began her career in the New Haven USD before joining the Carlsbad USD. During her years in Carlsbad, she was named Calavera Hills Elementary Teacher of the Year in 2012 and participated in the California Teachers Association Region 4 Institute for Teaching Think Tank.
Michele later served as Assistant Principal and Co-Principal at Vista Innovation and Design Academy in the Vista USD. She also served as a Principal in the Poway USD, leading improvements in student achievement, curriculum, and instruction for more than 2,000 students. She also focused on creating a positive, inclusive school culture for students and families
Committed to equity and representation, Michele became a founding member of the California Association of Asian and Pacific Leaders in Education to support AAPI communities and allies. She also supports organizations that advocate for underrepresented groups in education.
Active in the Carlsbad community, Michele has served on the Carlsbad Education Foundation (CEF) Board and as a mentor for the CEF Student Leadership Council. Recently, Michele and her husband, Sam, were named 2026 honorees by the Carlsbad Education Foundation in recognition of their longstanding service and commitment to local students and schools. She believes strongly in giving back to the community and supporting all students in building brighter futures.
