Dr. Annette Alpern has managed budgets, bond measures, facilities and more with a focus on student needs as Redondo Beach USD’s deputy superintendent of administrative services.
Alpern asks what is best for all students
September 15, 2025
Name: Dr. Annette V. Alpern
Award: Business Services Administrator of the Year
Title: Deputy Superintendent, Administrative Services, Redondo Beach USD
ACSA highlights: Member since 1996; South Bay Administrative Association Board Member, 2016-19; ATSA President, 2005-06; Region 14 VP Legislative Action, 2003-05
For more than three decades, Dr. Annette Alpern has championed equity, access, and achievement for all students. This year, that commitment earned her recognition as ACSA’s 2025 Business Services Administrator of the Year.
Alpern has held key leadership roles in both Torrance and Redondo Beach unified school districts, most recently serving as deputy superintendent of administrative services of Redondo Beach USD. In her tenure, she has championed equity-centered initiatives, including College-Going Culture and Beyond the API, leading to a 27 percent increase in UC/CSU eligibility rates.
A driving force behind the district’s one-to-one device program, Alpern ensured students — especially those who are historically underserved — had equitable access to technology that enhanced achievement. Her leadership was also instrumental in managing over $120 million in annual budgets and supervising departments including purchasing, facilities, child nutrition and risk management.
Following the pandemic, Alpern prioritized the safe return to in-person learning and led return to school for students most impacted by learning loss. As labor negotiator and member of the superintendent’s cabinet, she has long advocated for collaborative solutions that improve student outcomes.
Described by colleagues as the “conscience of the district,” Alpern continuously asks, “What is best for all students?” Her work reflects that philosophy — from implementing dual language immersion and Project Lead the Way, to securing over $4 million in grants and reducing childhood obesity from 17 percent to 7 percent in partnership with the Beach Cities Health District.
Beyond the district, Alpern mentors aspiring administrators, serves as CFO for Harbor Interfaith Services, and collaborates with community partners including Chevron and BCHD to enhance programs and services for students and families.
Whether revising board policies to center equity, developing innovative professional development for South Bay educators, or organizing events that provide vital resources to over 9,000 students annually, Alpern’s impact is deep and lasting.
“Not many administrators can go from leading curriculum and instruction in a district to managing the budget, a bond measure, facilities, and so much more,” said Redondo Beach Superintendent Dr. Nicole Wesley. “What makes Annette stand out is her unwavering focus on students. While it sounds cliche, she is a true model of leading from the heart and mind. She is an example of staying focused on how to better serve students no matter what issue comes our way.”
What’s your favorite book or quote on leadership?
One of my favorite quotes on leadership is from John Quincy Adams: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” This quote resonates deeply with me because it reflects the essence of what we strive for in educational leadership — empowering others to grow, contribute, and lead.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Be present where your feet are. I can’t say I am always great at following it, but it does remind me about giving my full attention to the moment I’m in — not the next meeting, or the to-do list. When I successfully follow this advice, it helps me find balance, build stronger relationships and stay grounded in what really matters.
What’s your best strategy for work-life balance?
Compartmentalize the best you can. Work efficiently. And, as stated above, “be present where your feet are.” Take vacations.
What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator?
Remember to eat (keep a healthy snack basket with protein bars, fruit, etc. in your office). No one makes good decisions with low blood sugar.
Breathe. Not everything needs an immediate response. Sometimes it is better to reflect, gather information, and then respond.
Relationships first. Build trust. With trust, much can be accomplished.
Know your values. Calendar them. Protect your time by aligning your calendar with your values.
Be kind to yourself. You will make mistakes.
You probably can’t celebrate too often. Be the positive person in your life and in the life of others.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Not much. I’m a pretty open book.
What made you want to become a school administrator?
I always wanted to make a difference in the lives of students. As a social studies teacher in my 20s, I was passionate about helping students understand their rights, their responsibilities as citizens, and the vital role they play in sustaining our democracy. I wanted them to see the relevance of history — not just as a subject, but as a powerful tool for learning, reflection, and change.
Throughout those early years, I was fortunate to have site and district administrators who recognized and nurtured my leadership potential. They provided opportunities that expanded my professional world, allowing me to contribute beyond the classroom. Over time, those experiences made the transition into administration feel like a natural evolution — a way to broaden my impact while still staying true to my core belief in the power of education to transform lives.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are?
Probably myself. There were times in my career when I questioned whether I was ready or capable of taking on the next big challenge. Those moments of self-doubt often held me back more than any external obstacle ever could. At other points, I made intentional decisions to prioritize my personal life, especially as a parent. Over time, I’ve learned that leadership is not about having all the answers or holding a particular position. It’s about knowing who you are, trusting your journey, and showing up as your true self. That self-awareness has been key to my growth and success.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Although I am so proud of many professional accomplishments and milestones in my career, when asked this open-ended question, I do not pause or hesitate with an answer …it is becoming a single-mother-by-choice and successfully raising my son.
How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position?
I have been a proud member of ACSA for 29 years. In my early years as a site administrator, I quickly came to understand the powerful role ACSA plays in shaping education policy and how essential it is for educators to help inform and educate our elected officials on the issues that directly impact children, families, and schools. Participating in Legislative Action Day during the 1990s and early 2000s deepened my understanding of advocacy and strengthened my commitment to being an active voice for public education.
Over the past two decades as a district administrator, my appreciation for ACSA has only grown. I have come to rely on the invaluable network of colleagues and friends I’ve built through this organization — relationships that continue to support, inspire, and guide me in my day-to-day leadership. ACSA has definitely been a professional anchor throughout my career.
The theme for this year’s Leadership Summit is “Lead Loudly: Sharing Stories, Building Bridges.” What does Leading Loudly mean to you?
This theme speaks to the power of visibility, vulnerability, and connection. It’s not about dominating the room — it’s about being courageous enough to use your voice, share your experiences, and stand up for what matters, especially when advocating for students, staff, and communities. It’s about modeling transparency and integrity in a way that inspires others to do the same. Sharing stories is at the heart of how we connect as human beings. In education, our stories — both personal and professional — help shape understanding, break down barriers, and give voice to those who might not yet have one. When leaders openly share their experiences and listen deeply to others, they build trust and foster a culture of belonging. Building bridges is the natural result of that openness. It means finding common ground and creating pathways forward — together.
A driving force behind the district’s one-to-one device program, Alpern ensured students — especially those who are historically underserved — had equitable access to technology that enhanced achievement.
Alpern has prioritized equity-centered initiatives, including College-Going Culture and Beyond the API, leading to a 27 percent increase in UC/CSU eligibility rates.
Whether revising board policies to center equity, developing innovative professional development for South Bay educators, or organizing events that provide vital resources to over 9,000 students annually, Alpern’s impact is deep and lasting.