On July 23 and 24, the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) held its 2026–2027 Leadership Launch at the district’s Expanded Learning Center. Centered around the PYL Promise—the district’s new strategic plan developed through the collective voices, hopes, and aspirations of students, staff, families, and community members—the two-day event provided an opportunity for district leaders to explore how its three guiding priorities, Rooted in Connection, Ready for Tomorrow, and Stronger Together, will shape leadership, inform decisions, and align the district’s work throughout the year.
The event also served as an opportunity to celebrate excellence in service, foster professional growth, and strengthen collaboration among leaders across the district.
Day one began with a special student performance by the Valencia High School Jazz Band, followed by a welcome from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kym LeBlanc-Esparza and remarks from Board of Education President Carrie Buck.
A special highlight of the morning was the recognition of PYLUSD leaders celebrating significant milestones in their years of service to the district. Together, this year’s honorees represent an extraordinary 275 years of collective service to PYLUSD students, schools, and the community. Employees celebrating 15, 20, 25, and 30 years of service were recognized for their dedication, contributions, and the important role they continue to play in the district’s history and legacy.
15 Years of Service
- Miriam Asgar — Occupational Specialist
- Dianna Gagliano — Occupational Specialist
- Ali Alfaro — ABA Supervisor 4
- Lisa Carmona — Principal
- Michelle Miller — Assistant Principal
20 Years of Service
- Sylvia Ramirez-Cuesta — Director II
- Kristen Petrovacki — Principal
- Sally Weirich — Counselor
- Laura Campuzano — Counselor
- Eron Campuzano — High School Activities Director
25 Years of Service
- Stephanie Dempsey — Assistant Principal
30 Years of Service
- Yvette Aguilar-Kettering — Wellness Specialist
- Anne San Roman — Principal
- Jose Cabrera — Assistant Director, State and Federal Programs
- Martha Suarez — Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
- Tonya Gordillo — Assistant Director, Student Services
The morning also included the introduction of new members of the PYLUSD leadership team before Dr. LeBlanc-Esparza led a professional learning session centered on the principles of Multipliers. The session challenged leaders to consider how they can amplify the talents, ideas, and leadership capacity of those around them while building strong teams that support the goals of the PYL Promise. Day one concluded with a PLUM raffle, adding to the event’s spirit of connection, celebration, and community.
Day two began with a welcome from Dr. LeBlanc-Esparza before Deputy Superintendent of the Academic Leadership Team Dr. Candace Perez guided leaders through a data analysis session focused on using information to better understand student needs and inform their work for the year ahead.
Leaders then transitioned into breakout sessions designed specifically for site and central office teams. Site leaders used the time to prepare for welcoming teachers and staff back to campus, while central office leaders continued their leadership development with Chief Business Officer Dr. John Pappalardo and Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Chad McGough.
Together, the two days provided PYLUSD leaders with dedicated time to learn, collaborate, reflect, and prepare for the 2026–2027 school year centered in the PYL Promise and a shared commitment to being Rooted in Connection, Ready for Tomorrow, and Stronger Together.
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