From the Principal

Parents and Guardians of Clay International Academy Students,


Welcome to Clay International Academy! My name is Dr. Nicole Garcia, and I am the principal of CIA. I am excited to begin the new school year!  I was born and raised in the South Bend area and attended Saint Mary’s College for undergraduate school. I love living and working in South Bend and am hoping to create more partnerships with our community. 


I have a firm commitment to teaching and learning and believe that relationships are at the core of a great educational experience. I began my teaching career at Washington High School in 2004 and remained there for the last fifteen years. During my time at Washington High School, I taught 9th-12th grade ELA and served as the English Department Chair from 2013-2018. Most recently, I served as the Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at Washington High School.  


I am passionate about reading and believe that literacy is the key to student success in school,  at work, and in life. I am committed to having a culture of super readers at CIA and am eager to have our parents involved as well! 


As the principal of Clay International Academy, I  will place students’ needs at the core of the work we do on a daily basis. I am a firm believer in high expectations, relationships, equity, relevancy, and inclusiveness. I  want Clay International Academy to be a family and will strive to create an atmosphere where everyone has a voice and a seat at the table.


I look forward to meeting each and every one of you and am looking forward to a great year!


Sincerely,



Nicole Garcia, Ed.D

Email: [email protected]



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