Meet Our Principal

With 16 years of experience in school leadership, Mr. Kevin Garcia has dedicated his career to advancing academic excellence, strengthening school communities, and creating learning environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Mr. Garcia began his career in education as a teacher in the Niagara Falls City School District, where he spent five years developing his craft and ultimately serving as a master teacher. His passion for instructional excellence and his commitment to improving outcomes for students led him to transition into school leadership with the Buffalo Public Schools.

Throughout his leadership career, Mr. Garcia has remained deeply committed to the students and families of Buffalo. He has served the Houghton Academy community for nine years, including the last three years as the school’s principal. His leadership is grounded in high expectations, strong relationships, instructional excellence, and the belief that a positive school culture is essential to student success.

Under Principal Garcia’s leadership, Houghton Academy has earned regionwide recognition for academic achievement and for fostering an exceptional school culture and climate. His commitment to students extends beyond academic performance to ensuring that children feel valued, supported, challenged, and proud to be members of the Houghton Academy community. He believes that lasting school improvement is achieved through meaningful partnerships among students, educators, families, and the greater community.

Mr. Garcia earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from SUNY Brockport before continuing his graduate studies at Niagara University, where he earned two Master’s degrees: one in Special Education and another in Educational Leadership. His academic accomplishments reflect the same standard of excellence he promotes for his students and staff. Mr. Garcia earned a 4.0 GPA in both graduate programs and was recognized for academic excellence in each area of study.

Principal Garcia’s commitment to service also extends beyond the walls of Houghton Academy. He continues to serve as a community leader and member of the Executive Board of the Kaisertown Coalition, supporting efforts to strengthen connections, create opportunities, and improve the community Houghton Academy proudly serves.

At the heart of Principal Garcia’s leadership is a simple but enduring commitment: students come first. Through collaboration, high expectations, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every child, he remains dedicated to ensuring that Houghton Academy is a place where students achieve, families belong, educators grow, and the entire school community takes pride in what it accomplishes together.