Every Student. Every Future.

Gwen Leads the Way

As County Superintendent, my priorities are clear: build strong partnerships that support students, invest in educators, and strengthen families—because every child deserves the chance to thrive.

PRIORITY ONE

Champion for Every Child

Every student deserves strong instruction not just in academics, but in every part of their development, helping them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. When we support the whole child, we give every student the chance to thrive in school and life.

As County Superintendent, I will prioritize:

  • High-impact instruction for literacy  and math with  continued investment in SBCMI Math and Literacy initiatives 

  • Social-emotional learning (SEL) Mental health services and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) that create safe, welcoming environments supporting students’ wellbeing 

  • Inclusive teaching strategies that meet diverse learning needs

  • Targeted support for students with special needs, foster youth, homeless students, English learners, and migrant youth

  • Expanded specialized programs including Career Technical Education (CTE), technology integration, and enhanced special education services to meet diverse student needs.

PRIORITY TWO

Invest in Educators, School staff and Leaders

When the school teams are empowered, students succeed. As a former teacher and district leader, I know that strong teachers and staff  build strong schools. I am committed to investing in educators, support staff , service providers and school leaders who make that possible.

As County Superintendent, I will prioritize:

  • Expanding coaching and mentorship for teachers and support staff

  • Providing high quality professional learning opportunities in areas of literacy, math, special education, and behavioral health that are aligned with classroom needs

  • Strengthening leadership pipelines to recruit, grow, and retain site administrators, educators, and service providers

  • Supportive conditions and community partnerships that help educators build lasting careers here in San Benito County

PRIORITY THREE

Strengthen Family & Community Partnerships

When schools, families  and communities partner together, students thrive. 

As County Superintendent, I will prioritize:

  • More opportunities for family voice, partnership  and engagement

  • Partnership with local, regional and state agencies and businesses to increase resources, services and support in schools

  • Countywide coordination on safety and wellbeing

  • Transparent communication and shared accountability

PRIORITY FIVE

Ensure fiscal responsibility

When resources are managed responsibly and transparently, schools can focus on what matters most—student success. I am committed to ensuring that San Benito County schools are fiscally strong, accountable, and strategic in their investments.

As County Superintendent, I will prioritize:

  • Ensuring transparent, accountable budgeting practices

  • Aligning resources to high-impact programs that improve student outcomes

  • Strengthening long-term financial planning to maintain stability during changing economic conditions

PRIORITY FOUR

Create Safe and Supportive Schools

When students and educators feel safe, supported, and valued, they can fully enge supports are essential to creating positive school environments where everyone feels a sense of belonging.age and thrive. As a former teacher and district leader, I know that strong systems, relationships, and proactiv

As County Superintendent, I will prioritize:

  • Strengthening Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

  • Promoting inclusive, culturally responsive school practices

  • Partnering with families and community agencies for wraparound services

  • Collaborating with law enforcement to strengthen school safety

  • Enhancing threat assessment practices to proactively address risks