Lao has been with the Winton School District for 24 years. She will replace retiring Superintendent Randall Heller, whose last day will be July 31, 2024. As Director of Educational Services, Lao has assisted Heller in developing and recommending changes in district plans as it relates to programs and services for academic performance and engagement, school connectedness, parent engagement and communication.

Lao came to the United States as a refugee from Thailand when she was about two months old. She was an English Learner up until middle school. Lao’s role models were her teachers who made her feel welcomed and safe despite the language barriers. It was these educators who inspired her to become a teacher. According to the district, Lao is the first Hmong superintendent in the state of California.

After graduating from Merced High School, Lao attended Merced College and graduated with an Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Studies and transferred to CSU Stanislaus, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies and soon after obtained her Multiple Subjects Credential. After teaching for seven years, Lao completed her Masters of Science in Education with Walden University. It was not until she started working in the district office that she decided to obtain her Administrative Credential with National University.

Lao is looking forward to her upcoming role in continuing the Winton School District successes and upholding the district’s mission “To prepare all students to become responsible members of a democratic society.” Her top priorities are increasing student achievement, staff and student connectedness, and parent engagement. She is sincerely appreciative of Heller for his recommendation and the Winton School Board of Trustees for their unanimous vote in selecting her as the next superintendent.