Assemblymember Chris Ward has selected Dr. Fabiola Bagula, Superintendent of the San Diego Unified School District, as the 2025 Latino Heritage Month honoree for Assembly District 78.
The recognition acknowledges Superintendent Bagula’s contributions to the Latino community and San Diego region through her work in public education. Assemblymember Ward’s office cited her professional endeavors and leadership in public education as reasons for the honor. The announcement noted that Superintendent Bagula is the first Latina to serve as superintendent of the district and praised her leadership approach, which has been informed by her bicultural upbringing on the San Diego border.
Superintendent Bagula has held various educational leadership positions throughout her career, including roles as an educator, principal and district administrator. She has provided leadership coaching to superintendents and cabinet members across San Diego County districts, including Poway, Encinitas, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Ramona, Coronado, and Lakeside.
Superintendent Bagula’s recognitions include the 2023 California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators Central Office Administrator of the Year and the 2013 César Chávez Visionary Leader award. She has contributed to publications including “Latinas Leading Schools” (2021) and “Hispanic Perspectives on Student Support and Community Empowerment” (2024).
She holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from the University of San Diego and has served as faculty at California State University San Jose and the University of San Diego. Bagula is currently a Yale-Broad Leadership fellow and has delivered presentations to school districts across California and internationally.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from Assemblymember Ward during Latino Heritage Month. My story is rooted in the San Diego border, and while this honor celebrates representation, it also reminds me of the responsibility we carry to ensure every student in San Diego Unified—of every background—has the opportunity to thrive,” Superintendent Bagula said.
