Temecula Selects New Superintendent To Lead School District

TEMECULA, CA — After serving 25 years with the Temecula Valley School District, Kimberly Velez has been selected as the next Superintendent of Schools.

Velez, currently serving as Interim Superintendent, is an award-winning administrator who has served as a trusted leader in the district for decades.

"For 25 years, this district has been my life’s work," she wrote in a statement. "Together, we will keep students at the center of every decision, ensuring they learn in joyful, rigorous environments that prepare them for limitless futures.”

The decision came earlier this month in the form of a unanimous 5-0 vote. Velez, who has been an educator for 30 years, will fill Gary Woods' seat when he retires in January.

“Dr. Woods dedicated his career to the success of our students, and his service leaves a lasting impact on TVUSD,” said Board President Melinda Anderson. “We thank him for his commitment and wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement.”

Velez brings not only experience to the role but also a number of accolades, including being named Riverside County Certificated Administrator of the Year by the Riverside County Office of Education and Certificated Administrator of the Year by TVUSD.

Over 24 years, the district says she has consistently advanced student achievement, innovative practices and built partnerships with families and the community.

“Dr. Velez is exactly the leader TVUSD needs right now,” Anderson said. “Her steady leadership, deep roots in this community, and unwavering commitment to students make her uniquely qualified to guide our schools into the future. Dr. Velez will continue to drive the academic success that has defined TVUSD for so many years.”

Velez worked at the district first as a principal, then as a district executive. Most recently, she worked as Assistant Superintendent of Educational Support Services.

"She has championed stronger instructional systems, expanded
supports for multilingual learners and students with disabilities, and guided initiatives that keep student well-being and data-driven practices at the heart of every decision," the district said.

“It is the greatest honor of my career to serve as Superintendent of Temecula Valley Unified,” she said. “This is a truly special place—our community, our families, and especially our extraordinary staff who dedicate themselves every day to the success of our students."

The district serves around 28,000 students across 29 schools in Southwest Riverside County.