Congratulations are in order for Misty Her of the Fresno Unified School District on becoming the first Hmong and first woman superintendent in the district’s history.

The recent news of her appointment came with considerable statewide attention given that FUSD is the third largest district in the state. In the last two decades, the district has had only three superintendents; quite a feat for a district that size.

Each of the last two superintendents were welcomed as new leaders with positive news stories and celebrated for their achievements when they announced their departures. In the weeks that followed her appointment, reports about Misty Her amplified unfair criticisms about her selection, salary and authority. It follows a pattern of intense scrutiny that is all too familiar to women of color in leadership roles.

My heroes in life and in education have overwhelmingly been women of color, so I’d like to think that I have some credibility on the matter. As an experienced Latino superintendent, I anticipated the unfair criticism she’d encounter and I was not wrong.

Many in Fresno support Superintendent Her and eagerly await her stewardship of the district. I invite you to visit her “About the Superintendent” page on the district’s website to better understand how her appointment is a signal of progress for communities of color, reminding us of the transformational power of public education. Her journey — from a student in Fresno schools to an instructional aide, teacher, principal, deputy superintendent, and now superintendent — embodies the very essence of the American Dream. I have personally never met Superintendent Her, though I truly hope to do so because I admire her leadership.

Studies have consistently shown that women of color face compounded biases and are held to higher standards than their white male counterparts. Women of color report a lack of trust and respect from colleagues and face racism and gender bias at higher rates than others. I believe it is important for us to name this treatment in order to avoid repeating it.

The treatment she’s endured represents a double standard and I choose not to ignore this double standard. There are many talented women of color educators in Fresno County. They are watching someone they have never met, but whom they admire, suffer unfair treatment during a time that should be joyous. They see Misty Her standing tall and firm. In five, 10, 15 years when they’re up for a big promotion, I know they can do the same. I just don’t think they should have to.

Diego R. Ochoa is superintendent of San Mateo-Foster City School District, president-elect of the California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators, and represents Region 5 on ACSA’s state Board of Directors.