The following is a submission from SMMUSD.

For more than two decades, Martha Díaz Chacón has dedicated her career to education, shaping the lives of students and leading initiatives that foster equity, inclusion, and academic excellence. As the principal of John Adams Middle School (JAMS), her journey from classroom teacher to district leader has been defined by an unwavering commitment to student success. Now, as the recipient of the 2025 Dean’s Superintendents Advisory Group (DSAG) Scholarship, in partnership with TELACU, she is recognized for her impact and leadership in education. 

“Receiving the 2025 DSAG Scholarship is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Chacón. “This recognition serves as both encouragement and motivation, reminding me that the work I do to remove barriers, create access, and empower students and families is making a difference. It fuels my resolve to keep pushing for meaningful, student-centered change in education.” 

Chacón’s passion for education began while volunteering at the Salesian Boys & Girls Club in Boyle Heights, where she saw firsthand the challenges students faced in accessing academic support. What started as general volunteer work after college quickly turned into a leadership role, helping develop the teen learning center. Inspired to make a difference, she pursued a career in teaching, beginning in 1999 as a chemistry teacher. 

In 2005, she joined Santa Monica High School (Samohi), where she taught chemistry, Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), and freshman seminar, served as an AVID coordinator, and helped lead service learning and civic education initiatives, contributing to Samohi earning the Civic Learning Award. In 2007, Chacón earned National Board Certification in science, a distinction she renewed in 2017. After more than a decade in the classroom, Chacón transitioned into administration, becoming assistant principal at JAMS in 2017 before stepping into the role of principal in 2022. 

As a first-generation college graduate and daughter of immigrants, Chacón’s personal experiences have fueled her lifelong dedication to fostering equity and inclusion. 

“I know what it’s like to navigate systems that weren’t built with us in mind and to face barriers that make access and opportunity feel out of reach,” she said. 

“My goal has always been to remove obstacles, create access, and empower students and families to advocate for themselves.” 

Pushing for meaningful change within the education system has come with challenges, but Chacón has remained focused on creating student-centered solutions. 

“One of the most challenging aspects of my career has been working within a larger educational system that doesn’t always serve all students equitably,” said Chacón. “Pushing for meaningful change often requires persistence, navigating barriers, addressing gaps in support, and working to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the resources they need to thrive.” 

Chacón’s dedication to advocacy extends beyond her school community. While earning her doctorate in educational leadership (Ed.D.) at the University of Southern California (USC), she has continued her focus on leadership development, civic education, and social-emotional learning. She holds a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences with a minor in Spanish from the University of California, Irvine, and a Master of Science in education from Mount Saint Mary’s University. She expects to finish her doctoral program in May 2025. 

Chacón credits the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) community for playing a pivotal role in her growth as an educator and leader. 

“SMMUSD has been my home, a place that has both challenged and supported me. Here, I’m surrounded by incredible leaders who share my values and are committed to equity, fostering a culture where we can learn, grow, and create meaningful change together,” said Chacón. 

The DSAG Scholarship, awarded annually to three outstanding USC Rossier Ed.D. students, recognizes leadership and a commitment to superintendency. Established in 1980, DSAG provides mentorship, networking opportunities, and support for educational leaders across California. TELACU, a pioneering institution focused on empowerment and advancement in the Latinx community, partners with DSAG to equip scholars with the tools needed to drive meaningful change. 

Congratulations to Chacón on this well-earned recognition. Her leadership, dedication, and commitment to students and educators make her a true inspiration. This award is a testament to her hard work and the positive impact she continues to make in SMMUSD.