Dr. Wendy Castañeda-Leal: Semitropic's new superintendent

Dr. Wendy Castañeda-Leal is the new superintendent of Semitropic Elementary School and is poised to lead with a deep commitment to equity and inclusivity. Her appointment promises a focus on student-centered policies, community engagement and a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

She said she is very excited about her new role. "Working with brown and Black students has always been a passion of mine. That is what I have focused on throughout my career; getting an opportunity to try to make some change is a dream come true."

Her duties will be overseeing the school and the day-to-day operations. "Ensuring that we comply with our different types of funding and, above all, ensuring that our students get the opportunity to receive the education they deserve."

She started college at State University of New York at Plattsburgh studying business administration and then transferring to Clayton State University in Georgia, where she graduated with an education degree. She has a master's in administrative leadership and a PhD in curriculum and instruction from Capella University.

Castañeda-Leal has a love for the arts, having graduated from the Juilliard Music Advancement Program in New York City, and she studied violin from 5 years old. She perfected her performing skills for over a decade at the OPUS118/East Harlem violin program.

She has a diverse career history that she describes as culturally enriching. In New York, she

worked for a Native American education program. Then, with a group of friends, she created a

nonprofit organization called the Red Hawk Indian Arts Council. Later, she worked for the Savannah Chatham County School District in Georgia and at Rosebud & Oglala Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Her most recent position in California was with Roseland Public Schools as the director of whole child education.

"My diverse experiences moving to different communities around the United States and being raised by very strong, humble immigrant parents have prepared me."

One of the things she plans to concentrate on as superintendent is empowering teachers and staff to cultivate a positive learning environment. "I would encourage collaboration, provide professional development, support open communication, foster a positive school culture, but most importantly, recognize the achievements and success the teachers and staff have accomplished."

She emphasizes building relationships with staff, students, parents and the broader community. "To build any relationship, one of the most important attributes is open communication and collaboration, fostering a place where any of those members feel like they have their voices heard, and ensuring a strong network of support for students, parents, educators and the community."

Her motivation to work in education, particularly in a leadership role, "and specifically, at Semitropic, is the opportunity to make a positive impact because I can see myself in these children."

Castañeda-Leal explained that her educational philosophy guides her decisionmaking. "My educational philosophy centers on the belief that every student has the potential to succeed when provided a supportive, inclusive and engaging learning environment. That philosophy guides my decision-making by promoting equity and collaboration, prioritizing student needs, investing in professional development for all staff and adhering to data-driven decisions."

As she embarks on her new position, Castañeda-Leal looks forward to making a significant difference and inspiring a love of learning among Semitropic's students.