Welcome to
Carmel Del Mar
Carmel Del Mar
The School with A Heart!
The School with A Heart!
I'm excited to join you for an incredible year of learning and growth! - Ms. McGowan
Educational Background and Professional Experience:
My name is Ms. Joanna (Jo) McGowan, and I am excited to begin the 2024-2025 school year as an Education Specialist in the Learning Lab.
My journey into education started in 2017, driven by a lifelong passion for teaching. I began as a substitute Instructional Assistant and substitute Education Specialist at Sage Canyon School in DMUSD. Over the past seven years, I have had the privilege of working in special education at various schools in DMUSD and neighboring districts. I was an Education Specialist at Carmel Del Mar School during the 2023-2024 school year and I am thrilled to now join the team at Sycamore Ridge!
I received my Education Specialist Credential (Mild to Moderate Support Needs) through San Diego State University and earned my B.S. in Business Administration from Babson College in Wellesley, MA.
Teacher Contact Information:
Email: jmcgowan@dmusd.org
Phone: 858-755-1060 x3821
I am originally from Upstate New York and moved to San Diego 25 years ago. I live in Cardiff and love all things outdoors, especially the ocean and any trail where I can walk, hike, or run. I enjoy traveling and going on hiking and camping adventures. This summer, I attended a family reunion in the Catskill Mountains in New York, went on a backpacking trip to Havasu Falls in Arizona, and traveled to Oahu and Molokai to volunteer at a paddleboarding championship.
I believe in creating a supportive and engaging learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered. My goal is to ensure that each child receives personalized attention that addresses their unique needs and strengths, fostering both academic growth and a love for learning. I am committed to maintaining open communication with parents and colleagues, working collaboratively to support each student's progress and success. I look forward to partnering with you and your child to make this a positive and productive school year.
I am originally from Upstate New York and moved to San Diego 25 years ago. I live in Cardiff and love all things outdoors, especially the ocean and any trail where I can walk, hike, or run. I enjoy traveling and going on hiking and camping adventures. This summer, I attended a family reunion in the Catskill Mountains in New York, went on a backpacking trip to Havasu Falls in Arizona, and traveled to Oahu and Molokai to volunteer at a paddleboarding championship.
My backpacking trip to the Havasupai Reservation.
A road trip to Northern California.
My cat, Melon.