The Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) named Dr. Debra Duardo as the 2024 Superintendent of the Year. This recognition is part of the ALAS 2024-25 Awards, which celebrate exceptional leadership and advocacy in education.

Dr. Duardo, who has served as the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools since 2016, oversees the largest regional education agency in the United States. Her role spans 80 K-12 school districts and affects nearly two million students across Los Angeles County. Her leadership has been marked by a steadfast commitment to ensuring educational equity and access, particularly for at-promise students and their families. 

Under Dr. Duardo’s guidance, the Los Angeles County Office of Education has implemented significant improvements to address the needs of its diverse student population. Her efforts include expanding access to educational resources and providing critical support to students at pivotal moments in their education. These initiatives have garnered widespread acclaim for their impact on educational outcomes and their promotion of inclusive practices.

Dr. Duardo will be recognized at the ALAS Gala Dinner Event on October 11, 2024, held at the Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront. This event will conclude the ALAS 21st National Education Summit, taking place from October 9-11, 2024, in Portland, Oregon. The summit will explore challenges and solutions related to Latino and historically marginalized students. 

The selection of Dr. Debra Duardo as Superintendent of the Year highlights her outstanding contributions to educational leadership and her dedication to creating a supportive and equitable learning environment for students, aligning with ALAS’s mission to celebrate those who drive positive change in education.

For further details on ALAS and its initiatives, visit ALAS Website.