Wright champions healthy bodies and minds
October 14, 2024
Name: Kimberly Wright
Award: Student Services Administrator of the Year
Title: Director of Health and Safety, Palmdale School District
ACSA highlights: Member since 2004; Region 15 communications, 2019; Region 15 Secretary, 2021-23; ACSA Leadership Coach, 2016-present.
Kimberly Wright stepped into her role as director of health and safety at Palmdale School District at a challenging time — when students were returning to in-person learning at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of her first actions was to initiate and organize a drive-through COVID testing location, allowing school employees and community members to get tested in order to return to school or work.
From there, Wright continued her hard work to promote both physical and mental health. She set up the district’s first Wellness Fair with the theme “Matters of the Heart and Mind.” The event featured information on educational programs and resources available for students, along with activities for children like yoga, a soccer tournament and relay races.
Wright is also dedicated to school safety. She has provided Narcan (naloxone) for all 30 schools in the district to combat opioid overdoses and has held town hall meetings to discuss the dangers of fentanyl abuse and provide socio-emotional resources. In addition, she facilitates trainings on trauma, CPR and automated external defibrillators to prepare staff for emergencies.
“It is evident that Dr. Wright has passion for what she does, advocating for students and supporting staff in the areas of health and safety,” wrote Frances Ufondu, Palmdale School District’s assistant superintendent of business services.