Education Insider Magazine proudly presents the Top 10 School Superintendents in California 2026, recognizing education leaders who guide district progress through strategic oversight and a strong commitment to student success. These professionals align academic priorities with community expectations while supporting effective school administration. Their leadership helps districts strengthen learning outcomes and respond to evolving educational needs, enabling California school systems to improve performance while building lasting trust with families.
Top 10 School Superintendents in California - 2026
Dr. Sarah Stone
Superintendent, Albany Unified School District
Dr. Sarah Stone is a passionate educator who believes in the power of strong schools and supportive communities to shape children's lives. A graduate of UC Berkeley’s School of Education, she brings a deep commitment to educational equity, meaningful learning and helping every student reach their potential.
Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen
Superintendent, Westminster School District
Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen, Ph.D., is Superintendent of Westminster School District, where she leads through trust, equity, collaboration and student success. Her leadership focuses on strengthening teaching and learning through strategic planning, community engagement and a commitment to serving every student.
Jennifer Hawn
Superintendent, Piedmont Unified School District
Dr. Jennifer Hawn is Superintendent of Cupertino Union School District, bringing experience in district leadership and educational administration. Her work emphasizes student success, supportive school environments and meaningful collaboration among educators, students and families.
Melissa Brookens
Superintendent, Aspire Public Schools
Melissa Brookens is a Superintendent at Aspire Public Schools, overseeing 16 schools serving approximately 7,500 students. With over 18 years of leadership experience, she specializes in organizational development, strategic planning and building strong, collaborative teams.
Erin M. Simon
Superintendent, Bellflower Unified School District
Dr. Erin M. Simon serves as Superintendent of Bellflower Unified School District and is a former president of the Association of California School Administrators. Her leadership centers on academic excellence, student opportunity and community engagement.
Jennifer Loftus
Superintendent, Paso Robles Joint Unified School District
Jennifer Loftus serves as Superintendent of Paso Robles Joint Unified School District in California. She brings experience in educational administration and district leadership, supporting the work of schools, educators and the communities they serve.
Jill Southern
Superintendent, Coast Unified School District
Jill Southern is an educational leader with experience in school administration, engineering education and the film industry. An award-winning administrator and teacher, she brings a distinctive combination of creative, technical and management expertise to her work.
Benjamin Churchill
Superintendent, Poway Unified School District
Dr. Benjamin Churchill is Superintendent of Poway Unified School District, with more than 30 years in education. A former teacher and principal, he champions career pathways, community partnerships and opportunities that prepare students for life after graduation.
Gordon Amerson
Superintendent of Schools, Val Verde Unified School District
Dr. Gordon Amerson is Superintendent of Val Verde Unified School District and founder of The PrincipalED Leader. A former science teacher and principal, he specializes in leadership development, executive coaching and building stronger educational organizations.
