Superintendent
Dr. Devin Serrano is a dedicated K–12 educational leader and a California native, raised in South Lake Tahoe. While earning her bachelor’s degree in political science from Chico State University, she discovered her passion for the classroom while working as a paraeducator at a local elementary school. She went on to earn her teaching credential at Sierra Nevada College, beginning her career teaching first and second grade in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg and Denver Public School Districts. Early in her career, she was recognized with nominations for the Harris Teacher of the Year Award and the Exemplary Writing Teacher Award.
Driven to deepen her impact, Dr. Serrano earned a Master of Science in Contemplative Education from Naropa University and a Doctorate in Educational Administration from the University of Denver. Her extensive career spans public, private, and non-profit settings across all levels—from preschool through college.
Over a 15-year tenure with Denver Public Schools, Dr. Serrano served as a literacy coach, assistant principal, principal, and director. After returning to California, she joined the Los Angeles Unified School District as an Instructional Director in the West Region, where she cultivated a strong commitment to mentoring principals and developing school leaders. She was later selected as Chief Academic Officer for Oakland Unified School District, directing districtwide initiatives focused on early literacy, special education inclusion, English Language Learner support, personalized learning, and computer science expansion. During a key leadership transition, she also served as Oakland's Interim Superintendent for seven months.
Continuing her focus on leadership development, Dr. Serrano served as Executive Director at New Leaders, a national non-profit. In this role, she partnered with school districts and state agencies across the country to facilitate high-impact professional learning for teacher-leaders, principals, and superintendents.
Before joining the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District (PVPUSD), Dr. Serrano served as the inaugural Superintendent of PreK–12 Programs and Schools at UCLA, overseeing seven preschools, a PreK–6 laboratory school, and a 6–12 college preparatory school. She successfully navigated these independent university-affiliated schools through the challenges of the pandemic, fostering deep integration with UCLA. In 2023, she received the UCLA Rising Star Award for her extraordinary service and lasting contributions.
In August 2023, Dr. Serrano was appointed Superintendent of PVPUSD. Committed to continuous growth and operational excellence, she completed the USC School Business Management Certificate Program at the University of Southern California in June 2026.
Throughout her career, Dr. Serrano has remained steadfast in her commitment to instructional excellence and creating systems where all learners succeed. Her favorite moments continue to be spent alongside school leaders, observing instruction, and engaging with students.
Dr. Serrano resides in San Pedro with her family. Outside of her leadership work, she enjoys cooking, reading, and CrossFit.