Dr. Denise Jaramillo, the Superintendent of the Alhambra Unified School District (AUSD), has been awarded the 2024 Los Angeles County Superintendent of the Year award. This prestigious recognition highlights her outstanding contributions to leadership, student success, and the promotion of an inclusive learning environment. On the morning of October 23, Dr. Debra Duardo, the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, made a surprise appearance at an internal meeting within the AUSD to present the award to Jaramillo.
Having attended Mark Keppel High School within the AUSD, Jaramillo now serves the district with a dedication that spans 37 years, leading with empathy, fairness, and a strong belief in the potential of every student. Under her guidance, the Alhambra Unified School District has focused on student well-being through innovative solutions and strong collaboration with unions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she prioritized the needs of staff and students, fostering community cohesion. Collaborating with local organizations and leaders, Jaramillo ensured students received meals and mobile internet connectivity, and she helped facilitate access to COVID-19 vaccinations through mobile clinics for district staff and students.
Jaramillo is also an advocate for equity, inclusivity, and student engagement within the district. For the 2023-24 academic year, she was instrumental in establishing student members on the school board and forming a student advisory committee, ensuring that students have a voice in district decision-making. She personally mentors students in leadership roles, encouraging meaningful dialogue between them and district leaders as well as community representatives.
Furthermore, she has spearheaded the formation of an equity task force and promoted collaboration between the district and community organizations. “I am incredibly grateful and humbled by this honor, but it truly reflects the collective efforts and commitment of countless individuals within the Alhambra Unified School District community,” Jaramillo shared, expressing her astonishment upon receiving the surprise recognition.
Dr. Duardo remarked, “Dr. Jaramillo is a true visionary who has transformed Alhambra Unified School District into a thriving educational community. She demonstrates expertise, empathy, and forward-thinking solutions in every challenge she faces.” Jaramillo’s achievements have been recognized by various organizations, including the Alhambra Education Foundation, the Alhambra Latino Association, Congresswoman Judy Chu, and the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 15.
The Los Angeles County Superintendent of the Year award was established by the Los Angeles County Office of Education in 2017 to honor superintendents who excel in various domains. Jaramillo will be officially recognized during the Los Angeles County Education Celebration on November 7 aboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach.
