About

Quimby Oak Middle School

Two Pathways. One Mission. Endless Possibilities.

At Quimby Oak, students can choose the learning experience that fits them best. For those who thrive through hands-on exploration, the Lobo School of Innovation (LSI) brings learning to life through real-world, project-based experiences. For students who prefer a more traditional structure, the Lobo Discovery Academy (LDA) provides a strong academic foundation through focused content instruction and daily periods.

Learn About LDA

Explore LSI

Our Academic Pathways

Quimby Oak Middle School serves a diverse group of students from many backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Our campus is a place where every child is encouraged to grow not just academically, but also socially and emotionally.

We are proud to offer two learning pathways: the Learning Discovery Academy (LDA) and the Lobo School of Innovation (LSI). Both pathways provide students with high-quality instruction, caring teachers, and opportunities to explore new ideas. Families can choose the approach that best matches their child’s learning style.

Lobo Discovery Academy (LDA)

🕒 Traditional daily schedule
📚 Core academic classes by content area
👩‍🏫 Single‑teacher model
🎯 Strong academic foundation
🧠 Structured individual learning

See school vision, mission & principal message →

Lobo School of Innovation (LSI)

📅 Block schedule for deeper learning
💡 Interdisciplinary, project‑based learning
👥 Co‑teaching with integrated content
🗣️ Real‑world applications & public presentations
🤝 Collaborative, inquiry‑based learning

Learn more about LSI →

About Quimby Oak

Principal’s Welcome

Dear Students and Families,

I’m honored to serve as principal of Quimby Oak Middle School. As we build on the strong leadership and Lobo Legacy of the past, I look forward to working together to support our students’ growth during these important middle school years.

Students can expect an engaging experience filled with academic and social opportunities. I encourage them to get involved and make the most of their time here. Families play a vital role in our success. Please consider joining PTSA and parent leadership committees to share your ideas, expertise, and support. Clear communication and collaboration between home and school are at the heart of Quimby Oak.

I’m proud to be part of this community and excited for a memorable school year.

Go, Lobos!
Ginger Gaeta, Principal

Our Vision

Inspiring young adults to be thoughtful and resilient contributors to society.

Our Mission

Empower students to think critically and act compassionately
Foster communication, collaboration, creativity, and agency
Support multiple pathways to achieve shared outcomes

School Data & Improvement Plans

School Profile: CA Department of Education →
School Accountability Report Card (SARC) →
Annual School Plans (CSSP & SPSA) →

Meet Quimby Oak Administrative Team

Ginger Gaeta, Principal

Mrs. Gaeta began her career in Evergreen in 2005 as a student teacher at Carolyn Clark Elementary. She began teaching at Montgomery Elementary in 2006 and joined the reinvention team at Katherine Smith Elementary in 2012. Long time certified teacher with the New Tech Network and leadership team member, Mrs. Gaeta served as a District Instructional Common Core Coach at O.B. Whaley Elementary before joining Evergreen's administration team. Known for her creative drive, knowledge, and collaborative spirit, Mrs. Gaeta served as an Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal, and Site Director of LSI before becoming the principal in 2020. On a personal note, Mrs. Gaeta enjoys decorating her new home in Morgan Hill, spending time with her family, traveling, and spending time with her dog, Daisy! She enjoys entertaining, planning events, and decorating. Mrs. Gaeta is artistic, vibrant, and brings her former cheerleader spirit with her wherever she goes!

Camille Gingrich, Assistant Principal

Mrs. Gingrich has 30 years of service in the Evergreen School District. She has served as assistant principal at Quimby Oak, and taught at several schools throughout the district during her tenure, including OB Whaley, Millbrook, Montgomery, LeyVa, and Quimby Oak. She has taught multiple subjects in middle school Math, ELA, and World and US History. Mrs. Gingrich has held positions of Leadership at each site, including grade level lead, department lead, team lead, ILT member, and RTI coordinator; has piloted History, ELA, and Math curriculums; coordinated mentor, character, and multicultural programs; has been a student teacher, BTSA, and Induction program mentor; curriculum co-creator for 6th grade Math benchmarks, 6th and 7th grade Common Core ELA/History year plan units, and as district and site PD design, lead, & instructor/presenter.

Mrs. Gingrich is hard working, dedicated, and has a passion for curriculum and supporting teachers and students to be their best selves. She believes that it is an honor and privilege to be trusted with the education of children and to serve the community. She believes in a student centered learning environment, where every lesson has meaning and purpose, and every activity challenges students to think critically, ask questions, and be curious to find the whole story from multiple perspectives. She is the students biggest cheerleader and strives to be the best she can be to bring out the best that they can be. She has high expectations for herself and does not take the responsibility of education lightly. On a personal note, Mrs. Gingrich loves spending time with her husband, her three college age children, and her dogs. She loves the beach, music, dancing, and her travel adventures with her husband. She is compassionate and kind, and looks forward to cheering on both staff and students in the upcoming year!

Heather Cardona, Assistant Principal

Ms. Heather Cardona brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to inclusive education and student support. She began her career as a K–8 Special Education teacher, where she developed a strong foundation in differentiated instruction and advocacy for diverse learners.

Ms. Cardona went on to serve for eight years as a District Student Services Coach, supporting schools in building systems that foster academic, behavioral, and social-emotional success for all students. Her leadership continued at the secondary level, where she served as Assistant Principal at both Willow Glen High School in San Jose Unified and Chaboya Middle School in Evergreen School District. Most recently, she served as the Interim Principal at Silver Oak Elementary School.

Ms. Cardona was born and raised in the Bay Area. She earned her bachelor’s degree from California State University Channel Islands and holds a Special Education teaching credential from San José State University.

On a personal note, she loves spending time with her two high school aged kids. She is a proud dance mom and a new football mom. She loves the water, hiking, crafting, and traveling.

She is excited to join the team at Quimby Oak Middle School and proud to be a Lobo!

Christopher Rivas, LSI Site Director

Christopher Rivas was born and raised in Evergreen and attended Cadwallader Elementary School and LeyVa Middle School. He began his teaching career in 2009. After eight years of teaching in a traditional classroom setting, Mr. Rivas transitioned to project-based learning, where he currently teaches 7th grade Social Studies and English language arts. As Site Director, he is responsible for leading LSI’s teacher professional development and supporting instructional growth across the site. He is known for his collaborative approach, commitment to academic rigor, and emphasis on building strong classroom communities. In addition to his teaching and leadership roles, Mr. Rivas serves as the head coach for Quimby Oak's cross country and track and field teams.

School Recognition

California Gold Ribbon School
2015

Quimby Oak PBIS Community Cares Medal 2020

A California Distinguished School
2019, 2013, 2001, 1996, 1992