Dr. Devin Serrano, the new superintendent of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District, practices a people-first philosophy. Dr. Serrano, who has been with the district since July, spends her time building relationships and considering how district decisions affect students, teachers, staff, and parents. She is excited about the future of the school district and agreed to answer some questions so the community could get to know her.
Palos Verdes Magazine: Welcome to Palos Verdes! Tell us about your career trajectory.
Dr. Devin Serrano: I started my career in education as a paraprofessional and found that I loved working with children. I became a teacher, administrator, literacy coach, central office administrator, principal supervisor, chief academic officer, and superintendent in two very different systems (Oakland Unified and UCLA).
Early on, I knew I wanted to be a superintendent and emulate some of the best practices I had witnessed to make a bigger impact. I discovered the opportunity in PVPUSD and was drawn to the district because I was interested in serving my local community through public education. I knew the excellent reputation of the district and was confident that I could bring strong leadership to the district and continue to build on the many strengths of PVPUSD going forward.
It felt like a place I could lead for a long time to come. I truly feel like this is exactly where I am meant to be and my path has prepared me to be successful in this community. I am excited to be the Superintendent of PVPUSD and look forward to coming to work every day.
PVM: How do you like the Palos Verdes community so far?
DS: In just the short time I have been at PVPUSD, it is easy to see what a special place this is. I love the vibrancy of the community. I love that PVPUSD is a district with families, students, and staff with a variety of perspectives and viewpoints. I have had the pleasure of visiting all our school sites, and the energy and dedication are inspiring. And of course, the views are also spectacular!
PVM: Tell us about your family.
DS: I am originally from South Lake Tahoe, California. I am married and have two children and two stepchildren. My two sons are in Redondo Beach Public Schools, a senior and an 8th grader. My step-daughter is in 5th grade here in the district and I have a young adult step-son in the U.S. Navy. My family has been incredibly supportive and also had great suggestions through this transition.
PVM: What do you like the most about your work?
DS: I like being in schools and interacting with students, teachers, and families. I love visiting classrooms and observing learning and teaching. I also enjoy hearing from community members about issues of importance related to education. I feel like every day I am learning new things and have the opportunity to lead the district positively.
PVM: How do you spend your free time?
DS: I love CrossFit and practice the sport frequently. I enjoy it because each workout is different every day and I am never bored, and always challenged. My husband and I work out together at 5:00 a.m. the only time we have each day that is just the two of us. Even though it is difficult getting up early to work out, we enjoy the time together and it helps to set the day in a positive direction. I also enjoy reading and cooking when I have time.
PVM: What keeps you motivated?
DS: I keep motivated by thinking about the bigger picture of the impact I am making. I know that each interaction is an opportunity to positively impact the culture of the district and move us forward together as a team.
PVM: Do you get more done in the morning or the afternoon?
DS: This is a difficult question. I tend to have a steady pace throughout the day, but in the mornings I can usually find a quiet half an hour when I can work uninterrupted and feel more focused.
PVM: What makes you smile?
DS: My children and students make me smile every day!
