DELRAY BEACH – As a former player and coach at Atlantic High School, I have never seen anything like this. 

When I say nothing, I am referring to Atlantic principal Tara Ocampo. I have never seen a principal with so much passion and pride for athletics.

After replacing former principal Anthony Lockhart in 2015, Mrs. Ocampo couldn’t have been a better fit for the Delray Beach school. Her ability to build relationships with staff, students, parents, and the community was – and still is – a breath of fresh air. The relationships that Mrs. Ocampo has built are on display every ‪Friday night‬ at football games. 

I’ve heard of players responding to coaches and wanting to play for their coach, but this Atlantic team also plays for their principal. Senior defensive lineman Jason Mercier reflected on his principal’s enthusiasm for the game.

“She (Mrs. Ocampo) is like that parent you don’t want to let down, so every time we hit the field we play for her, our coaches, and the community,” Mercier said.

My first encounter with Mrs. Ocampo was last year’s Atlantic game against Boca Raton. It was on a play where Don’Dre ‘Debo’ Swint scored and all I could hear is, “Is that my Debo?!” 

And from the corner of my eye I could see someone sprinting and jumping down the sideline. I thought to myself, “Wow, that’s crazy. Atlantic has cheerleaders running on the field”. Little did I know it was Mrs. Ocampo celebrating with her players. After witnessing Ocampo’s unprecedented celebration, I told myself that Atlantic has something very special. 

Fast forward to a year later, Atlantic is now 12-1 and advancing to the Class 8A state championship game. When asked how Atlantic’s teams successful year in and year out, head coach T.J Jackson lauded Mrs. Ocampo’s impact on the program.

“It starts up top with our principal (Mrs. Ocampo), who does a great job of getting our kids to understand the importance of education, supporting one another, and having each other’s back.” 

In an exclusive Q & A interview with New Era Prep, Mrs. Ocampo talked about her passion for education and athletics. 

New Era Prep: What inspired you to pursue a career in education?

Mrs. Ocampo: I pursued my career in education because I truly have a passion for kids. I love working with kids and helping them reach their goals. I love my job. The best part is the kids. I learn from them everyday. I am a very proud principal!

New Era Prep: Where does your love for athletics comes from? 

Mrs. Ocampo: My love for athletics comes from my background. I was a gymnast for 12 years. I also ran track and field and played tennis in high school. I grew up in a small town where my athletics was a huge part of my high school. Our high school football team earned many state recognized championships in Pennsylvania. I was a cheerleader and just love the sport!”

New Era Prep: How important is it for you to attend athletic events as the school’s principal?

Mrs. Ocampo: It is very important as principal that I attend as many sporting events to support my kids, coaches, community, and parents. Kids love to see me, the administration, and the staff at their events cheering them on. I love seeing the kids showcase their many talents and athletics, which is a great outlet for many of my students. There are many scholarship opportunities available through athletics, and the goal for all of students is to graduate and have options when choosing their pathway through college and career opportunities.

New Era Prep: Does attending athletic events help in creating a good relationship with students and athletes? Sometimes administrators can be seen only as regulators.

Mrs. Ocampo: Building relationships is very important for me with all my kids. That is what it is all about. We are a family at Atlantic, and I tell the kids that all the time. We must take care of each other and work together as an Eagle Team. All my students, staff, community, coaches, and parents help to make our ATL family a very special school and comprehensive program! Working with Coach Jackson has been a wonderful partnership. We are always on the same page when it comes to putting kids first both with academics and on the football field. He does a lot for our kids, school, community, and parents. 

Atlantic (12-1) is heading to the Class 8A state championship game, where it will face off against perennial powerhouse Dr. Phillips. Be sure to look out for Mrs. Ocampo on the sideline celebrating with her coaches and players.

PHOTO CREDIT: Keith Forde