Lorraine Perez

Dr. Lorraine M Perez, is a seasoned educator and advocate for students and families, currently serving as the Deputy Superintendent with Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD). The focus of her work is grounded in building comprehensive and aligned systems to support the implementation of SAUSD’s Graduate Profile. This work builds student achievement, social emotional wellness and family and community engagement into the DNA of the district. Prior to joining SAUSD, she served San Bernardino City Unified School District as the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, Director of Elementary Instruction and Coordinator of Elementary Instruction. While serving in these roles, Dr. Perez led the work to build systems that supported student health and mental wellness, academic achievement, before and after-school programs, family engagement, early childhood and adult education as well as specialized programs, including those serving homeless and foster students. Lorraine began her career in education as a teacher in the Baldwin Park Unified School District. She also served as a principal at one of the district’s dual language schools, crediting the learning opportunities and time spent there as the foundation of her strong instructional leadership and commitment to engaging parents as partners in their child's education. Dr. Perez earned her doctorate of education from the University of Southern California. She earned both master’s and bachelor's degrees from California State University, Fullerton where she later served on the Board of Directors for the Alumni Association. Her professional experience also includes working for the Walt Disney Company as well as being a small business owner. She has also actively served her community as a City Commissioner for over 15 years, on the Economic Development Commission as well as the Parks and Recreation Commission.