Coordinator of Expanded Learning Opportunity Programs, Lynwood Unified School District​

Thelma Gonzalez, currently serving as the Coordinator of Expanded Learning Opportunities at Lynwood Unified School District, is a dedicated education leader passionate about advancing equity, inclusion, and student success through high-quality, outcome-driven programs. A first-generation Mexican-American, Thelma’s journey has fueled her lifelong commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and creating meaningful opportunities for all students, particularly those from historically underserved communities.

With over a decade of experience in public education, Thelma began her career as a classroom teacher, where she cultivated culturally responsive environments that celebrated students’ diverse identities and laid the foundation for her equity-centered leadership philosophy. She went on to serve as Principal at a Dual Immersion school, where she led the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), expanded dual-language programming, and established targeted support systems for students. Under her leadership, the district and school earned multiple recognitions, including the CA PBIS Bronze Award and the National PTA School of Excellence.

As a former Director of Student Support Services, Thelma oversaw district-wide enrollment, nursing, social work, and mental health services. She collaborated with various agencies to develop comprehensive social-emotional learning and wellness initiatives, including the establishment of a districtwide wellness and activity center.

In her current role, Thelma designs and evaluates before-school, after-school, weekend, and non-instructional day programs across the district. She champions an outcome-based approach rooted in equity, student voice, and parental input, ensuring that programs not only support academic achievement but also foster a sense of belonging, wellness, and growth.