(Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh, Board Member Maiaika Velzquez, Board Member Jeff Uchida, Board Member Veronica Miramontes, Board Member Tom Jennings, Board Member Dr. Bettye Lusk, Board Member Sarah Ofstedal, and Board Member Gabriel Sanders)
Each January, school districts across California and the nation pause to recognize the dedication and service of local school board members. This January 2026, the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District proudly joins more than 1,000 school districts statewide in celebrating School Board Recognition Month, honoring the individuals who volunteer their time and leadership to guide public education in our community.
Citizen oversight of public education is a cornerstone of our democracy. As locally elected officials, school board members serve as the vital link between schools and the communities they represent. Working collaboratively as a governance team with the superintendent, the MPUSD Board of Education sets the district’s vision, directs resources where they are most needed, ensures accountability, and advocates for students at the local, state, and federal levels.
MPUSD school board members fulfill five essential responsibilities that are fundamental to a strong public education system: setting direction, establishing effective and efficient structures, providing support, ensuring accountability, and offering community leadership. These responsibilities are carried out collectively, with a shared focus on what matters most: student learning, well-being, and opportunity.
“Our Board of Trustees plays a critical role in shaping the future of MPUSD,” said Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh. “Their commitment to equity, student achievement, and community partnership helps ensure our schools remain places where all students can learn, grow, and thrive.”
The MPUSD Board of Education works to ensure students’ academic, social-emotional, physical, and mental health needs are met through responsive programs, data-driven decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to inclusive and engaging learning environments. Board members collaborate closely with educators, staff, families, students, and community partners to align district priorities with community values and expectations.
MPUSD is grateful to its seven-member Board of Trustees, who represent the communities of Marina, Monterey, Seaside, Sand City, and Del Rey Oaks:
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Jeff Uchida, Trustee Area 1
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Tom Jennings, Trustee Area 2
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Dr. Bettye Lusk, Trustee Area 3
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Maiaika Velazquez, Trustee Area 4
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Veronica Miramontes, Trustee Area 5
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Gabriel Sanders, Trustee Area 6
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Sarah Ofstedal, Trustee Area 7
The district also proudly recognizes its voting student board members, whose voices help elevate student perspectives in district decision-making:
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Jaden Khan, Monterey High School (Fall 2025)
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Priya Nischal, Seaside High School (Fall 2025)
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Viviana Dirkson, Monterey High School (Spring 2026)
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Luis Arias Hernandez, Marina High School (Spring 2026)
The MPUSD Board of Education formally adopted a resolution proclaiming January 2026 as School Board Recognition Month, recognizing the dedication, governance leadership, and vital contributions of its trustees and student board members.
Throughout January, MPUSD invites students, staff, families, and community members to join in thanking our school board members for their service and commitment to strengthening public education. Their leadership helps shape a brighter future for every MPUSD student today and for generations to come.