The Sonoma Valley Unified School District Board Trustees has announced Dr. Jeanette Rodriguez-Chien as the new superintendent of schools, pending board approval at the upcoming May 11, 2023, regular board meeting. She is scheduled to begin her position on July 1.
As a public school educator for over 30 years, Dr. Rodriguez-Chien started her career as a bilingual classroom teacher and has served in a variety of capacities including school site principal, director of curriculum and instruction, chief academic officer, assistant superintendent and most recently Deputy Superintendent of San Diego County Office of Education.
“She embodies the qualities and qualifications most desired by our community,” said Board President Anne Ching. “Dr. Rodriguez-Chien brings expertise in curriculum development and implementation, English language learner programs, mental health programs, early literacy, special education, accelerated learner programs, as well as strategic planning and data analysis.”
Not only is Dr. Rodriguez-Chien bilingual, Ching said, but she also has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by culturally-diverse communities. “We are thrilled to have someone with the breadth and depth of experience to lead our district.”
In accepting the position of superintendent, Dr. Rodriguez-Chien expressed excitement and enthusiasm about coming to Sonoma Valley. “I am thrilled about the opportunity to work with the Sonoma Valley students, staff, parents, and community,” she said. “I am looking forward to building relationships with people, understanding the desires of the various stakeholders, and ensuring our district prepares students for their future endeavors. I understand that there is work to be done, but I am committed and embrace the opportunities to create relevant learning experiences for students and further develop a culture of collaboration. ”
Dr. Rodriguez-Chien holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Southern California as well as a master’s and bachelor’s degree from UCLA in educational leadership and psychology, respectively. Dr. Rodriguez-Chien has also taught educational leadership courses at Pepperdine University and the University of Southern California. She began her career in education in 1992 with the Los Angeles Unified School District. Her first teaching job was as a bilingual teacher at Marianna Avenue Elementary in Los Angeles.
Before taking her last job, with the Office of Education on San Diego, San Diego, Dr. Rodriguez-Chien most recently served as Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services for Chino Valley Unified School District.
The Board of Trustees would like to thank district staff, students, parents, and community members for providing valuable input through focus groups and surveys that culminated in a leadership profile of desired experience and skills for the next leader of our district.
The hiring by SVUSD will be made official at the May 11 board meeting, starting at 5pm at the District Office located at 17850 Railroad Avenue and will also be accessible via Zoom. The Zoom details are located on the homepage of the District’s homepage.
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