Santa Monica-Malibu Unified Hires New Special Education Director

MALIBU, CA — The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District has named a district veteran as the new special education director.

The Board of Education on Sept. 21 approved the appointment of Victoria Hurst to the role. Hurst has worked in the district for 20 of her 25-year career in education, district leaders said.

Hurst replaces Deanna Sinfield, who recently was hired as assistant superintendent of the Special Education Local Plan Area, which includes SMMUSD, Beverly Hills Unified and Culver City Unified schools.

“I am honored and humbled to be chosen to serve as the director of special education for SMMUSD,” Hurst said. “I look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that all students have access to an appropriate education. I share in the District’s vision of curiosity, belonging and empowerment for all.”

Hurst has worked as a special education coordinator for the past 13 years. She's also worked as assistant principal at Roosevelt Elementary School, a teacher, summer school intensive intervention teacher and a family literacy specialist.

She has a master's degree in special education from Cal State Dominguez Hills, a master's in educational leadership and policy from Cal State Northridge and a bachelor's degree in liberal arts from Pepperdine University.

“Ms. Hurst is a proven leader on our special education team with the best interests of our students always in mind,” SMMUSD Superintendent Antonio Shelton said. “We congratulate her on her new position and know she will have continued success serving our students, families and staff.