Dr. Denise Jaramillo, the Superintendent of the Alhambra Unified School District (AUSD), has received the prestigious 2024 “Los Angeles County Superintendent of the Year Award.” This recognition highlights her exceptional contributions in leadership, student success, and fostering a positive, inclusive learning environment. On the morning of October 23, Dr. Debra Duardo, the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, surprised Jaramillo with this award during an internal meeting at AUSD.
Having graduated from Mark Keppel High School within the Alhambra Unified School District, Jaramillo has dedicated 37 years to serving the community. Her leadership is characterized by empathy, equity, and a firm belief in the potential of every student. Under her guidance, the district has implemented innovative solutions and maintained strong collaborations with unions to enhance student well-being. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jaramillo prioritized the needs of staff and students while fostering community cohesion. She partnered with local organizations and leaders to provide meals, mobile internet access, and facilitated COVID-19 vaccinations for staff and students through mobile clinics.
Jaramillo is also committed to advancing equity, inclusivity, and student engagement within the district. She played a pivotal role in establishing a student member on the school board and launching a student advisory committee for the 2023-24 academic year, ensuring that student voices are integral to district decision-making. Furthermore, she personally mentors students in leadership roles and encourages meaningful dialogues with district leaders and community representatives.
Reflecting on her award, Jaramillo expressed, “I am incredibly grateful and humbled by this honor, but it truly reflects the collective efforts and dedication of countless individuals within the Alhambra Unified School District community.” She admitted to being quite surprised by the recognition.
Dr. Duardo remarked, “Dr. Jaramillo is a true visionary who has transformed the Alhambra Unified School District into a thriving educational community. She demonstrates expertise, empathy, and forward-thinking solutions in every challenge she faces.” Jaramillo’s accomplishments have also been recognized by various organizations, including the Alhambra Educational Foundation, the Alhambra Latino Association, U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu, and the California School Administrators Association (ACSA) District 15.
The “Los Angeles County Superintendent of the Year Award” has been presented by the Los Angeles County Office of Education since 2017 to honor outstanding superintendents in various areas of education. Jaramillo will be formally recognized at the “Los Angeles County Education Celebration” on November 7 aboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach.
