In a powerful demonstration of unity and advocacy, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Debra Duardo recently led a legislative visit to Sacramento with eight L.A. County district school superintendents:

• Dr. Darin Brawley, Compton USD  

• Dr. Maribel Garcia, El Monte City SD  

• Dr. Gudiel Crosthwaite, Lynwood USD  

• Dr. Darneika Watson, Glendale USD  

• Dr. Dan Stepenosky, Las Virgenes USD   

• Dr. Edward Zuniga, El Monte HSD   

• Mr. Brian Markarian, Hawthorne SD   

• Dr. Art Cunha, Temple City Unified 

This initiative emphasized the importance of ensuring the voices of students, educators and communities are heard by key policymakers.

As the largest regional education agency in the nation, L.A. County has a unique responsibility and opportunity to drive meaningful policy change. The visit underscored this commitment, focusing on coalition-building and strategic engagement with lawmakers to advocate for impactful educational policies.

Key Legislative Meetings

During the visit, the delegation met with several influential state leaders, including:

• Assembly Member Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance)

• Assembly Member Jessica Caloza (D-Los Angeles)

• Assembly Member Mike Gipson (D-Carson)

• Assembly Member Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth)

• Assembly Member Mike Fong (D-Alhambra)

• Esmeralda Barragán, Legislative Aide representing Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach)

Each meeting provided a platform for open discussions on the pressing issues facing L.A. County districts, highlighting the collective priorities shaped by direct input from local superintendents.

In addition to the legislative meetings, the superintendents attended a legislative reception hosted by the Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation. This gathering provided a valuable opportunity for networking and strengthening relationships with key partners, further solidifying the foundation for continued advocacy.

A Model for Sustained Engagement

This legislative visit reflects a broader commitment to sustained engagement and strategic advocacy. By coming together and speaking with a unified voice, L.A. County superintendents are not only advocating for their immediate concerns but also setting a precedent for long-term, impactful engagement with policymakers.

Together, these leaders are demonstrating that when it comes to advancing educational priorities, unity is strength—and collective action is the catalyst for change.