Administration
Francisco Manriquez
Principal
Email: fmanriquez@srcs.k12.ca.us
Francisco Manriquez is a bilingual educational leader and principal committed to advancing high quality teaching and learning in dual immersion education. Originally from Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico, and raised in Ukiah, California, he brings a deep understanding of classroom instruction and a strong commitment to instructional excellence.
With studies in Spanish and Chicano/a studies at UC Davis, and bilingual/bicultural teacher preparation, Francisco connects with the lived experiences of many families and champions equity, biliteracy, and rigorous academics. As an immigrant to this country he can draw from the struggles many families face and uses that as motivation to help all families have success with their students. He understands what it will take to create strong students who can be the best version of themselves beyond a K-12 education. His aim is to be excellent at what schools do best; teaching and learning. He works tirelessly to continually improve that work. Francisco loves the fact that he and his family came to this country with nothing but a dream to survive and do better. The personal experience of learning two languages and cultures simultaneously is why he is committed to lead CCLA forward.
He actively promotes strong values such as honesty, hard work, sacrifice, dedication, and commitment to excellence while preparing students to become confident, compassionate leaders in the near future through culturally responsive practices and meaningful family partnerships. His attitude is to find a way and get it done right! He understands from experience that building and supporting strong teams and systems are the key to a successful school.
Melissa Jones
Vice Principal
Email: mkjones@srcs.k12.ca.us
Before coming to CCLA, Jones had the privilege of working at Apple Blossom Elementary for nine years, where she served as both a PE teacher and a 3rd-grade teacher. In these roles, her focus was not only on enhancing physical health and academic achievement but also on fostering a strong, inclusive community spirit among students and their families. It was incredibly rewarding to see students thrive and grow, and Jones is eager to bring that same energy and dedication to our school.
Beyond her teaching roles, Jones was actively involved in the California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (CAHPERD). Her involvement there allowed her to advocate for healthful lifestyles through quality education and to provide leadership for various school, community, and statewide programs. This experience deepened her commitment to promoting well-being and a well rounded education, and she looks forward to applying this passion at Cesar Chávez.
Additionally, Jones's dedication to youth development extends beyond the classroom. She has had the pleasure of coaching athletes across a wide range of ages, from kindergarten through high school. Coaching taught Jones the value of teamwork, perseverance, and celebrating individual achievements, and she is excited to bring these lessons to her work with your children.
On a personal note, Jones lives in Sebastopol with her wonderful husband and their three children. As a parent, Jones understands the importance of a strong school-home partnership, and is committed to working closely with you to support your child's educational journey.
Jones is very much looking forward to meeting each of you and becoming a part of the CCLA family. Please feel free to reach out to her with any questions, ideas, or concerns. Her door is always open, and she is here to support our students and their families in any way she can.
Ryan Partika
Vice Principal
Email: rpartika@srcs.k12.ca.us
I have worked in education for more than 20 years. I was born and raised in Santa Rosa and am proud to be a product of Cook Middle School, so returning to this neighborhood truly feels like coming home.
I began my career as a middle school History and English teacher in Santa Rosa before continuing my teaching journey in Southern California. After serving as a department chair, I became a Teacher Specialist for five years at Benjamin Franklin Dual Language Magnet in Glendale, California. The school was unique in that it housed Spanish, Italian, German, and French dual language programs all under one roof.
After my daughter was born, my family knew it was time to return to the Bay Area. Upon our return, I had the privilege of serving as both a vice principal and principal in the Vallejo City Unified School District. Even then, I always hoped to return home to Santa Rosa and was fortunate to become the principal of Slater Middle School before its closure. Following that experience, I joined Piner High School as a vice principal—a particularly meaningful opportunity since Piner is also my alma mater.
When I learned of the openings at CCLA, I immediately expressed my interest to the District because I wanted to return to the world of dual immersion education. I feel incredibly fortunate to now serve as your new vice principal.
I also recently earned my doctorate from Loyola Marymount University, where my research focused on another passion of mine: trauma-informed care and culturally responsive practices. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to serve as a principal or vice principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, experiences that have shaped my commitment to supporting students, staff, and families.
I am honored to join this community and look forward to partnering with all of you to ensure that every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to succeed. I look forward to supporting our school community in any way that I can.