Mónica works every day to be the best Mónica she could be. She joins those across the globe working to advance wellness and healing. She has spent more than 30 years advancing educational justice with attention to the highest needs neighborhoods of Los Angeles. Mónica is a senior advisor at GPSN supporting leadership and collective action.

Mónica represented Board District 2 at the Los Angeles Unified School District from 2006–2022. Her election in June 2006 made her the 3rd Latina to serve on the Board of Education in its 155-year history. She was elected by her colleagues to serve an unprecedented eight years as Board President from 2007 to 2013 and 2015 to 2017.

With her bold call to action for “Diplomas for All,” L.A. Unified has taken aggressive action towards reaching 100% graduation, breaking the cycle of poverty, and ensuring that every student has access to learning with support and success. Mónica and the educational justice movement fought for restorative practices to reduce suspensions and expulsions, to increase equitable distribution of funds to our schools and increase outcomes for students.

Mónica led the campaign for Measure Q, the largest local school bond, which invests $7 billion towards repairing and upgrading schools, and building new facilities. The funds also brought health and human services and the $50 million Wellness Center Initiative to school campuses. She has encouraged local hiring in the largest public works program in the nation, building 131 new campuses, workforce housing, green space, libraries and athletic facilities across the district.

Previously, she served as an academic advisor in South Los Angeles at Foshay Learning Center and Edison Middle School as part of the Volunteers of America’s Educational Talent Search Program.

Mónica graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with dual degrees in Chicano studies and political science. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. She is the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants who inspire her every day.