La Jolla ISD introduces Derek Little as deputy superintendent and names several campus leaders

Valeria Vega introduced Dr. Derek Little as the district's new deputy superintendent, saying the board is "proud to have Dr. Little as our deputy superintendent." Dr. Little thanked the board and said he was "humbled and honored by the opportunity" and looks forward to working with the community.

Board and district leaders also announced several leadership assignments and hires. The administration named Rebecca Guzman director of the College and Career Center; Gerardo Navarro principal of Irene Garcia (Bridal) School; Ciro Gonzalez principal of Palm View High School; Dr. Eva Flores principal of Choppa Elementary; Cassandra Rodriguez principal of Jimmy Carter Early College High School; Belinda Salazar executive director of budget and fiscal oversight; Deborah Harris executive director of research, assessment and accountability; Julie Carranza joining school leadership; Nydia Ortiz senior director of school leadership; Efrain Matamoros deputy chief of operations and infrastructure; and Patrick Smith deputy chief of human capital strategic initiatives and talent development.

Superintendent Sorensen and board members framed the hires as part of a broader effort to strengthen campus leadership and support systems ahead of the 2026–27 school year. "Each and every one of them are so ready for the challenge and excited about what's ahead for them as they join the La Jolla ISD family," Sorensen said.

What happens next: many of the new leaders were described as already participating in district leadership academy sessions; the district said it will continue transition and onboarding activities ahead of the first day of school.