What have been some of your proudest accomplishments as superintendent of Yucaipa-Calimesa Joint USD? In Yucaipa-Calimesa, one of the proudest moments was the opening of our Family Learning Center. Parent involvement is key to a strong educational program. The FLC serves as a place for parents to learn skills such as digital literacy, navigating education for themselves and their children, and keeping them apprised of topics such as the dangers of fentanyl and other drugs, cell phone protocols for parenting, and many other relevant topics. Our second language learners have excelled, and in turn, our students do well, too. We graduate parents several times during the school year with computer literacy classes, starting with learning how to navigate email all the way to learning Canva!

I understand you have a sign that reads “Nice Matters” in your office. How does this concept show up in your leadership? I picked this sign up in a Marshalls store 25 years ago when I was selected to be a principal and I was looking to decorate my new office. I had hoped that when people walked into my office they would understand that no matter what reason they were with me, they would know the intent in my heart is to always be someone who is pleasant and kind in my interactions with others. I strive to be helpful and considerate of other’s feelings and needs. Don’t get me wrong, I still have my moments — but my sign reminds me of how I want to lead.

What have been some of your toughest days on the job and how did you manage them? My very first year as a superintendent was during the 2008 recession. I was devastated, green and overwhelmed with sadness with what I knew I had to do. A colleague called me and asked if I was doing all right, and I shared I was not. That is when I learned that having the right colleagues around you and giving back when I could was paramount to a superintendent’s well being and success. That mentor meant the world to me, and the best part was he really didn’t even know me yet.

COVID proved to be another one of those tough seasons, this time with more experience and tools in my belt, we got through it and I had the opportunity to serve in a role to support other districts in our county. When our YCJUSD team suffers a loss, whether it is an employee or student, we have to lift one another up and support each other. Going it alone is not an option.

Why did you found Family Promise of Yucaipa-Calimesa? In one of our classes at our Family Learning Center I met a family. The mom was a victim of an unsafe relationship and came to me for help, as her main concern was that her children would be able to stay in their schools. Her concern led to her leaving the relationship and not having any resources for shelter. As a Rotarian, I asked for support for this family, but I knew this would not be sustainable.

I met a retired YCJUSD teacher who also had a heart for homeless and displaced people. Together we researched the national chapter of Family Promise and decided to create our own chapter for Yucaipa-Calimesa. Family Promise has assisted many families, especially during the pandemic with food and housing. As for the family that provided inspiration: One is studying for his Ph.D. at UC Berkeley and the other is in her junior year at University of California, Riverside studying Psychology. In addition, the mom surprised me by walking across the stage at our Adult Graduation this year. That is what Family Promise is all about.

Why is mentorship important in education, especially for women? There are so many experiences, stories, lessons learned and successes that need to be shared and can benefit those around you. This comes from the mentee as well as the mentor. I always benefit from listening. I am fortunate to be a part of a group in San Bernardino County with several women superintendents. We call ourselves Leading Ladies of Learning! We learn, laugh, text, email, call and have dinner together every few months. We share vacation photos and family happenings. We also support one another through the challenges and celebrate the wins, as a win for one of us is a win for all!

I have been blessed with friendship and colleagues from all over that want to be a part of supporting not only one another, but the generations to come. I encourage our female leaders to consider the superintendent role, and in doing so, those of us who have and are serving need to be ready to step up and out to lend support. Historically, female superintendents have been underrepresented. The percentage of female superintendents is growing and it will take continued mentoring and recruitment to keep the positive trajectory.

What advice do you have for women just starting out in their administrative careers? Be yourself! The person you are is the person who was hired. The title does not define you. Surround yourself with people you can count on and those who can understand and help you. Don’t think it is weak to ask for help. Share your heart with people. Spend time developing relationships. Create your story — who you are at your core and what you value. Write down your goals and give yourself grace and time to meet them — the right timing is more important than just checking it off a list. Share your successes but also your stresses, so the pressure of the job doesn’t steal your joy. Help others and be a resource, and you will have amazing colleagues for your whole career!