Our Captain
Catherine Peralta Goodrich started her educational teaching career over 25 years ago. She joined St. Johns County in 2005 as a second grade teacher at Timberlin Creek Elementary. She served as the instructional literacy coach there before becoming its assistant principal in 2010. In 2013 she joined Osceola Elementary as its assistant principal, then she went on to join SJCSD Human Resources Department as the employee evaluation coordinator before joining Palencia Elementary as its assistant principal in 2018.
“Catherine is an exceptional leader and will provide a seamless transition for the Palencia Pirates,” said Forson. “She has already garnered the unwavering commitment and support from parents, staff, and the community and I know this will continue in her new role.”
Her passion is helping others to develop their full potential to best serve the students of St. Johns County. Her varied experiences have included the opportunity to train, coach, observe and evaluate employees. She has also served students in the areas of developing math curriculum mapping at the district level and as a mentor to both elementary and high school age children. Her early childhood education background and experiences are extensive.
“I am beyond humbled to be chosen as Palencia Elementary’ s educational leader,” said Goodrich. “Our school is overflowing with a brilliant combination of individuals: bright-eyed children and dynamic staff willing to do whatever it takes to ensure our students are safe, well cared for, and are achieving at high levels.”
Goodrich holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a master’s degree from the University of North Florida.
Assistant Principal
Theresa Cooper was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida and truly loves serving this community. She graduated with a Bachelors in Exceptional Student Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida.
Ms. Cooper shares with us that “education is a second career for me as I spent the first part of my life as a stay-at-home mom. I understand all students are unique with their own individual strengths and talents, as well as their own challenges. I believe all children can be successful when supported and given the right tools and strategies.”
She has been an ESE teacher, middle school dean and an assistant principal during her years as an educator.