Dr. Joann Vaars has been named ACSA’s 2025 Central Office Administrator of the Year for her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to foster and homeless youth in Santa Clara County.

As director of educational services at the Santa Clara County Office of Education, Vaars developed a data-driven system of support tailored to each school district and charter organization. Her work is grounded in equity, ensuring that services meet the unique needs of students experiencing homelessness or foster care. A 2023 county needs assessment revealed that 94 percent of foster and homeless liaisons attended her Community of Practice meetings, showing the value of the professional learning and collaboration she fostered.

“Dr. Vaars serves as the backbone that keeps our Educational Equity Steering Committee moving forward,” said former SCCOE Superintendent Mary Ann Dewan.

Vaars also spearheaded a critical partnership between SCCOE and the county’s child welfare agency, resulting in a $2 million annual grant for five years to fund educational coordination for foster youth. Since its implementation, academic outcomes have improved dramatically; ELA proficiency is up 17 percent, graduation rates have risen, and absenteeism has decreased.

Her team tracks individual student progress biannually, ensuring case coordinators and foster teams have up-to-date information. Support continues even after youth exit the system, providing much-needed stability and continuity. Dewan highlighted a case in which Vaars led cross-agency collaboration to secure a long-term placement for a highly mobile student who hadn’t experienced residential stability in years.

Vaars also strengthens partnerships with local organizations like Amigos de Guadalupe, where homeless teens serve as summer mentors. She ensures access to coaching, scholarships, and resources that extend beyond K–12 education.

Throughout her career — from high school activities director to elementary and middle school principal — Vaars has prioritized inclusive, student-centered environments. Her strategic application of research-based practices has led to measurable academic gains across multiple student groups.

“She led efforts that resulted in consistent gains ... with notable improvements in ELA and Math for African-American, Hispanic, and Students with Disabilities,” said Berryessa Union Superintendent Joe McCreary.

Vaars continues to lead with integrity, innovation, and deep care for students most in need.

I had a principal who turned and said to me, “When are you going to stop being told what to do by those who don’t have the heart for the work and take a leadership position?” I thought that was the worst thing he could say to me. Then, I started applying for administrative positions.

What are you most proud of accomplishing? Supporting school districts in aligning their Multi-Tiered System of Supports to address the needs of foster and homeless students in a manner that has improved our countywide outcomes.

How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position? ACSA is always there when I call. I appreciate the times Joanne Godfrey has called me back, supported our Membership Committee when I represented our region. Also, coffee with Margie [Cuizon-Armelino] is an ACSA highlight. Her willingness to be open, listen and share makes me joyful to be a member. The professionalism across the entire ACSA team makes me proud to be an ACSA member.