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
Ms. Mitten is excited to join our school community as an Assistant Principal. She brings 34 years of experience in education, including 19 years as a school administrator in Maryland and Florida. After retiring following a distinguished 32-year career, she relocated to Florida to be closer to her family.
Following a year of travel and enjoying retirement, Ms. Mitten realized how much she missed working with students and returned to education at Wards Creek Elementary in St. Johns County. She now resides in St. Augustine, where she enjoys being near her family.
Ms. Mitten earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from California University of Pennsylvania and later completed a Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Reading at the same institution. After moving to Maryland, she pursued additional coursework in educational administration at Bowie State University.
She is enthusiastic about continuing her educational journey at Palencia Elementary and looks forward to contributing to the success of the upcoming school year!