SUHSD Celebrates Superintendent Dr. Zandra Jo Galván’s Two-Year Milestone

SALINAS, Calif. — October 1 marks two years since Dr. Zandra Jo Galván became Superintendent of the Salinas Union High School District, celebrating a period of continued progress, stronger partnerships and expanded opportunities for students across SUHSD.

Since taking the helm in 2024, Dr. Galván has centered her leadership on listening and collaboration, working closely with students, families, educators, staff, community organizations and partners to strengthen the district and create more opportunities for every scholar.

That approach began early in her tenure. During her first 100 days, Dr. Galván made 100 school visits, observed more than 400 classrooms, held 16 student focus groups and met with community partners more than 80 times. Those conversations helped identify priorities around academic opportunity, student wellness, college and career preparation, the arts and student voice.

Two years later, that work is reflected in key student outcomes. SUHSD’s graduation rate increased from 84.9% in 2023–24 to a preliminary 91.7% in 2025–26, while the number of students completing at least one college course grew 40% in one year. Thousands of students are also participating in Career and Technical Education, earning industry certifications and gaining real-world experience before graduation.

“It is an incredible honor to continue serving the exceptional students, families and staff of SUHSD,” Dr. Galván said. “Every day, I am inspired by our students, their voices, their potential and the people throughout our district and community who believe in them and work alongside us to help them thrive.”

Partnerships have played an important role in that progress. Over the past two years, SUHSD has strengthened connections with colleges, community organizations and industry partners, creating additional pathways, resources and experiences for students both inside and beyond the classroom.

The district has also continued creating more opportunities for students to help shape its direction. Approximately 100 students participate in the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, bringing their perspectives directly into conversations about mental wellness, college and career opportunities, leadership and the student experience.

At the same time, students, families, educators and community members have helped shape SUHSD’s Portrait of a Graduate and Framework for the Future, providing a clearer shared vision for what students should know, experience and be prepared to do by the time they graduate.

Together, these efforts reflect a broader focus under Dr. Galván’s leadership: building stronger connections across the district and community while ensuring student needs and opportunities remain at the center of decision-making.

As Dr. Galván begins her third year, SUHSD celebrates the progress of the past two years and looks forward to continuing that work under her leadership.

“We are excited about what lies ahead and grateful to continue this journey together,” Dr. Galván said. “Our students deserve every opportunity to discover their strengths, pursue their goals and graduate with meaningful choices for what comes next.”