“It’s truly an honor and a privilege to serve the students and families of Orange County, and together we’re building something very special. Samueli Academy is a school that’s producing graduates who are knowledgeable and confident… ready and able young men and women poised to become the next generation of American leaders.”

Anthony Saba (pronounced SAY-buh) brings over 20 years of experience in education, both in the classroom and in school administration. After an extensive national search he was hired as Samueli Academy’s Head of School in July, 2012. “Anthony stood out among the many applicants for the position because of his passion for education and his proven experience as a leader,” says Bruce Fetter, former Board Chairman of Orangewood Children’s Foundation. “Anthony’s enthusiasm and love of learning will be infectious and encourage the best in all students.” Due to the overwhelming success of the school, as well as the continued growth of programming for our students, he was promoted to Executive Director in the spring of 2018.

Anthony began his career teaching high school business and math courses while coaching varsity football. He was named the “Rookie of the Year” his first year of teaching. He led the school’s virtual business program with students in the class running their own business including creating business plans, marketing plans, financial documents, and buying/selling with other virtual business classes around the country. The program received several statewide awards and participated in national competitions.

Anthony’s success in the classroom propelled him into administration. As an administrator, he has held the positions of assistant dean, dean of students, athletic director, assistant principal, principal, and now Executive Director. At Frontier High School in Bakersfield, California he was instrumental in building a high-achieving school from the ground up that achieved high test scores, high graduation rates and acceptance into college, and a successful athletic program. Anthony then became principal of Frazier Mountain High School in Lebec, California. While there he established teacher professional learning communities and common formative assessments, both designed to foster teacher communication, collaboration and accountability to identify successful teaching techniques. In 2014, Mr. Saba was named one of the “Top 40 Under 40″ professionals in Orange County by O.C. Metro Magazine. As Samueli Academy’s first employee, Anthony has led the school’s creation from the ground-up and oversees all aspects of campus, including fundraising.

Anthony holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Miami, and a teaching credential and Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Point Loma University. Originally from Bakersfield, he now resides in Newport Beach with his wife and two children.

In Anthony’s own words:

“My teaching philosophy is to allow students to take an active, hands-on role in their learning. I think it is especially important in the 21st century that we don’t just teach students WHAT they need to know, but show them WHY they need to know it.”