Mónica García joined GPSN to support local education advocacy. She concluded service on the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board of Education December 11, 2022. First elected in 2006, she continues to galvanize the LAUSD school community with bold initiatives that have contributed to an increase in graduation rates. She was elected to serve an unprecedented 8 years as Board President. García champions school reform models that increase student achievement, provide students personalized instruction, and grant educators greater instructional and budgetary independence. She has supported fully funding student needs with a $7 billion school bond and a $50 million increase in the district?s investment in school-based health and wellness centers. She also supports educational justice and accountability and increased academic support for English Language Learners. Prior to joining the Board of Education, García served as Chief of Staff to LAUSD Board President. Through her earlier work as a guidance counselor in South Los Angeles, she solidified her belief that with opportunities and support, every child can learn. García was born and raised in East Los Angeles. She graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a B.A. in Chicano Studies and Political Science, and earned her M.S.W. from the University of Southern California.