Alicia Tanpreet Johal, M.Ed., is a middle school assistant principal whose roots in the Oceanside community continue to shape her commitment to local students and families. As a former Oceanside student-athlete, she is deeply grateful for the teachers, coaches, mentors, friends, and family who helped shape her path and inspired her commitment to education.

Now in her 14th year in education, across public, charter, independent, and nonprofit educational settings, Alicia has worked to create engaging learning programs that expand student access to STEM, computer science, and robotics. Her efforts have focused on ensuring more students have opportunities to explore, create, and succeed in academic settings. Alicia also serves on the board of the Elementary Institute of Science, where she supports efforts to expand access to high-quality STEM learning opportunities for young people across the region, particularly in communities that have historically had fewer resources and opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. She believes every student deserves the chance to explore, create, and see themselves reflected in STEM pathways.

Alicia credits her journey to the unwavering support of her family, as well as the encouragement of many educators and mentors along the way, especially Mrs. Nancy Miller, who has been a source of guidance for her, since high school. Receiving this recognition from the Oceanside High School Foundation is especially meaningful because it reflects the strength of a community that continues to support, inspire, and invest in its students long after graduation.