School Leadership
John Moran
President
Dr. John Moran brings more than 30 years of leadership in Catholic and Christian education, with extensive experience as a president, superintendent, principal, and leadership consultant across both Catholic and independent schools. His leadership is marked by integrity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to student formation, academic excellence, and faith-based mission advancement.
Dr. Moran holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California, a Master’s in Teaching and Curriculum from Harvard University, and a Bachelor’s in History from the University of Massachusetts. Most recently, he served as President of Junipero Serra High School in Gardena, CA, and is widely recognized for his ability to unite communities around shared purpose and values. His work in capital development, enrollment strategy, and mission integration has strengthened every institution he has served. The Board of Trustees is confident that Dr. Moran’s vision, warmth, and dedication to Catholic education make him exceptionally well-suited to lead St. Francis into its next chapter.
Elias Mendoza
Principal
Elias Mendoza is Principal at St. Francis Catholic High School. He possesses a strong background in curriculum and instruction, Professional Learning Communities, technology implementation, athletics, and expertise in long-range planning and facilities management. He has an uncompromising view that all students can learn when provided a positive learning environment which welcomes exploration and enhances student confidence.
A highly qualified administrator, he served in the Elk Grove Unified School District for 15 years in a variety of capacities, including Social Science Department Chair, Co-Coordinator of the English Language Learner Program, and Vice Principal.
Mr. Mendoza attended Catholic schools in his native Mexico which instilled in him a deep faith and love for Catholic education. He sees education as a moral imperative and vows to continue to honor its legacy by maintaining high academic standards and instilling the Gospel values of Jesus Christ.
Julie Van Houten
Vice Principal
Julie Van Houten is Assistant Principal for grades 11 & 12. She began her career teaching in Elk Grove Unified School District in 2001 before teaching at Holy Trinity from 2007-2016, and then transitioned to St. Francis in 2016. Mrs. Van Houten holds a Master of Arts in Education and has taught World History, AP U.S. History, AP Government and Politics, and Economics and Civics. Mrs. Van Houten has also been a Social Science Department Chair, and a member of the school’s Executive Staff. She is also an Adjunct Professor at Sacramento State for several years. Mrs. Van Houten possesses a deep understanding of educational principles and a commitment to continuous professional growth.
Heather (Robison) Moloney ‘99
Assistant Principal
Heather Moloney is a St. Francis High School alumna (Class of 1999) and Assistant Principal for grades 9 & 10. She began her career teaching economics ang government at the high school level before returning to St. Francis in 2005 as a member of the Social Studies department. Prior to becoming assistant principal, she taught U.S. History, Economics, Civics, and AP U.S. Government & Politics as well as serving as the chair of the Social Studies department from 2015 to 2022.
Cynthia Cost
Dean of Students
Cynthia Cost is Dean of Students at St. Francis Catholic High School. She began her career as a police cadet before becoming a dispatcher, communications supervisor, and trainer. She also served as a Chaplain for multiple Sacramento law enforcement agencies. Prior to becoming Dean of Students in 2013, she worked as the assistant to the Dean. She started her career at St. Francis in the advancement department in 2003.
