Following an extensive search, the Orange Unified School District has announced the selection of Dr. Rachel H. Monárrez as its next superintendent.
A native of Southern California, Monárrez brings more than 30 years of experience in public education, with a focus on student-centered leadership, equity and community engagement, according to the district. Her appointment — informed by input from staff, parents, students and community members — is expected to be formally approved by the Orange Unified Board of Education at its regular meeting on May 7.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Monárrez into the Orange Unified family,” said OUSD Board President Kris Erickson. “Her proven track record of fostering inclusive, high-achieving school communities aligns perfectly with our district’s mission and values. We look forward to a bright future under Dr. Monárrez’s leadership, united in our mission to empower every student to thrive.”
Superintendent to watch
Monárrez most recently served as superintendent of Worcester Public Schools in Massachusetts, where her leadership was credited with driving gains in academic performance, organizational effectiveness and community outreach. For the 2023-24 school year, she was named one of the “Superintendents to Watch” by the National School Public Relations Association, which credited her dedication to communication and family engagement.
Before Worcester, Monárrez held the role of deputy superintendent in the San Bernardino City Unified School District. She previously served in a variety of other roles throughout California, including assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, senior director of an English learner program, principal, and teacher.
“I am grateful to the OUSD Board of Education for the opportunity to lead this phenomenal community,” Monárrez said in a statement. “I look forward to meeting our scholars, staff, and families, and learning about the amazing opportunities available throughout Orange Unified. Together we will continue to ‘inspire our learners of today to be purposeful leaders of tomorrow.'”
Districts seek next leaders
Bilingual in English and Spanish, Monárrez holds a Ph.D. in urban education along with a master’s degree in education from Claremont Graduate University. She also has a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of California, Irvine.
Pending board approval, she will officially begin her role as OUSD Superintendent of Schools on July 1.
The superintendent position became vacant following the resignation of Ernie Gonzalez, who stepped down in November. Gonzalez had served as interim superintendent since March 2023 and was appointed to the permanent role in August of that year.
Meanwhile, a number of school districts in Orange County are also in the process of looking for their next superintendents, including the Laguna Beach, Irvine and Placentia-Yorba Linda unified school districts.
Orange Unified School District serves approximately 26,000 students in the cities of Orange, Villa Park, Anaheim, Garden Grove and Santa Ana, along with unincorporated areas of Orange County.