Celebrating HERstory: One LBUSD Woman At A Time

In honor of Women’s HERstory Month, we recognize and celebrate some outstanding Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) women who lead, teach, and inspire daily. These women embody dedication, resilience and an unwavering commitment to students, families and the broader community. 

Dr. Jill Baker - Leading the Charge. Changing the Game.

We begin with Dr. Jill Baker, LBUSD's first-ever female superintendent, who is a 

HERstory-maker in her own right. With 33 years of remarkable service and a legacy that continues to grow, Dr. Baker is not only leading the district—she’s transforming it into a Liberatory one, ensuring that student and community voices shape decisions. Her leadership is a model of innovation and inclusion, and she firmly believes that education must catalyze opportunity and equity. Beyond strategy and innovation, Dr. Baker leads with ❤️. Her ❤️ belongs to LBUSD, where she pours passion into uplifting students, empowering educators and shaping a future built on excellence and care. Above all, she ❤️’s to encourage—because for Dr. Baker, leadership isn’t just about guiding others forward; it’s about lifting them higher.

Dr. Tiffany Brown - Authentic, Unstoppable. Unforgettable

Dr. Tiffany Brown is a leader who makes you feel seen, heard and inspired. She began her LBUSD journey as a school psychologist, and from day one, her passion for education and deep care for students has set her apart. Today, as Deputy Superintendent, she brings the same heart, humility, and fierce dedication to every decision she makes. Dr. Brown is undoubtedly one of the most authentic women you will ever meet—grounded in purpose, driven by excellence and always leading with love. Her role in LBUSD is only matched by one thing: her profound love for her daughter. For Dr. Brown, motherhood and this mission-driven work are the cornerstones of her life—and she pours her soul into both.

Xochil Barahona - The Quiet Force that Moves Mountains

Then there’s Xochil Barahona, the Office Supervisor at Alvarado Elementary—a woman who holds it down like no other. She is the rock, the center of gravity, the school's heartbeat. Everyone knows her, everyone loves her, and everyone relies on her. Whether guiding parents through school procedures, offering advice to a staff member in need, or simply being the steady presence that keeps the day running smoothly, Ms. Barahona does it all with grace, patience, and a warm spirit. If Alvarado is a well-oiled machine, she is the engine that keeps it moving—reliably, effortlessly and always with a smile.

Corinne Blackmore - Where Excellence Meets Compassion

At Cleveland Elementary, there’s only one person who seems to be everywhere at once—uplifting teachers, supporting students, and keeping the school moving forward with unwavering grace and grit. That person is Corinne Blackmore, the school’s Instructional and Intervention Coordinator and behind-the-scenes hero. 

As the only out-of-the-classroom staff member supporting the entire school, Ms. Blackmore wears many hats—and wears them well. From designing and leading high-impact professional development to serving as a trusted sounding board for the administration, she is truly the lifeline to Cleveland. Ms. Blackmore is who teachers turn to for guidance, who leaders rely on for steady insight, and who ensures every initiative is rooted in care and excellence. Ms. Blackmore doesn’t just support Cleveland—she powers it forward.

Dr. Verónica Madrigal - From the Classroom to the Boardroom, She’s Never Stopped Excelling

Another shining example of dedication is Dr. Verónica Madrigal, whose career path is a testament to perseverance and passion for education. She started her tenure with LBUSD as a college aid and advanced to teacher, counselor, assistant principal, principal, and principal director. She now serves as Director of Research and Student Outcomes, the first ever Latina in LBUSD's history to lead this critical work. Her journey reflects grit, determination, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence for herself and every student she serves.

Kirstie Ishikawa - Where School Spirit Meets Unstoppable Energy

At Browning High School, Kirstie Ishikawa, Activities Advisor, ensures students experience an exciting and engaging campus life. From coordinating unforgettable events to fostering school spirit, Ms. Ishikawa's dedication ensures every student feels seen, celebrated and connected. Her work transforms school into more than just a place to learn—it becomes a place to belong.

Keisha Irving - If It’s About Students, She’s Already There

Step onto Jordan’s High School campus and it won’t take long before you’re greeted by Principal Keisha Irving’s beaming smile—one that instantly lights up the room and the entire school. A true Jordan Panther through and through, Ms. Irving bleeds blue. Her pride in Jordan runs deep, and she’s quick to show guests all that makes the school exceptional: the impressive auditorium, the innovative mock emergency room where students learn hands-on medical skills, and—most proudly—her brilliant scholars. Ms. Irving is more than a principal; she's the soul of Jordan High. Her warmth is magnetic, her leadership inspiring, and her commitment to students is remarkable. 

Elvia Cano - The Powerhouse Who Makes the Impossible Look Effortless

While we tread diplomatically on the following acknowledgement (since this message comes from the communications department), we cannot overlook the work of Elvia Cano, Communications Director. Ms. Cano's work never stops—literally. She operates 24/7, helping to ensure students, families, staff, and the entire community are informed, engaged and connected to LBUSD. She somehow runs on two things: apples and perfume—and, of course, the boundless love she has for her son, Santiago. If she has those three things, consider that the entire district should be aligned, every message sent and every crisis handled gracefully. 

To Every Woman in LBUSD, You Are the Difference!

Of course, these are just some of the exceptional women shaping LBUSD’s legacy. To every woman in LBUSD—teachers, counselors, administrators, custodians, support staff, and more—we see, celebrate, and honor you. Your contributions make our schools, our students, and our community more substantial every single day.