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

Thelma Gonzalez serves as the Coordinator of Expanded Learning Opportunities for the Lynwood Unified School District and is a dedicated education leader committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and student success through high-quality, outcome-driven programs. As a first-generation Mexican-American, she has fueled her passion for creating meaningful opportunities for students, particularly those from historically underserved communities.

With more than a decade of experience in public education, Thelma began her career as a classroom teacher before serving as Principal of a Dual Immersion school, where she led the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), expanded dual-language programming, and strengthened student support systems. Under her leadership, the school and district received recognition, including the CA PBIS Bronze Award and the National PTA School of Excellence.

As a former Director of Student Support Services, Thelma oversaw enrollment, nursing, social work, and mental health services while helping develop districtwide social-emotional learning and wellness initiatives. In her current role, she oversees before-school, after-school, weekend, and non-instructional day programs across the district, championing an equity-driven approach centered on student voice, family engagement, wellness, and academic success.