The Fresno Unified School District in Central California named Misty Her its only finalist to become its next superintendent of schools.
The vote in close door session ends a 15-month search, reports the Fresno Bee.
According to the district, Her will become the highest-ranking K-12 educational professional in the country once her contract is finalized.
KFSN reports Her’s contract is expected to be approved April 30 at the next school board meeting. She is expected to be the first Asian American and first woman to lead the third largest school district in the state.
The announcement of the vote prompted a standing ovation from those in the crowded meeting room.
“I’m very happy and proud of Misty to have the first Hmong American woman as the superintendent of Fresno Unified,” Vang Pao Elementary School Principal Yua Lee said to KSEE.
In an emotional speech, Her who has worked with the district as Deputy Superintendent since 2021 and has also been serving as acting superintendent talked about her goals.
“I am filled with deep, deep gratitude and unwavering commitment to our students, and they have bold optimism for the road ahead,” Her said. “If a little girl like me could find her place here, imagine what is possible when we come together.”
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