Jerry Almendarez

Jerry Almendarez’ career in education spans over 30 years and includes experience as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and principal. Mr. Almendarez also served as Director of Human Resources for Colton Joint Unified from 2003 to 2007, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources from 2007 to 2010 and Superintendent from 2010-2020. As the Superintendent of Schools for the Santa Ana Unified School District, Jerry Almendarez is responsible for leading one of the largest school districts in the State, with 56 schools and programs, approximately 5,000 employees, and an expense budget of $890.6 million. Mr. Almendarez has a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Redlands, and a bachelor’s degree in business/finance from Cal State San Bernardino. Mr. Almendarez has also taught as an adjunct professor at Azusa Pacific University and the University of Redlands, and was named a 2019 Ted-Ed Innovative Educator. In 2020 Jerry Almendarez was named CALSA Region 6 Superintendent of the Year.