Leaving Legacy of Transformative Leadership
SAN BERNARDINO — San Bernardino County Superintendent Ted Alejandre announced today that he will not seek re-election in June 2026 and will retire at the conclusion of his term in January 2027, marking the close of a distinguished career in public education spanning nearly four decades.
“Serving the students and communities of San Bernardino County has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Together, we have accomplished so much, and I am deeply proud of the progress we’ve made as a community,” Alejandre said. “After much thought and reflection, I have made the very difficult decision not to pursue another term so I can devote more time to my family and loved ones.”
Elected in 2014 as the County’s 34th Superintendent—and the first of Hispanic descent to hold the office—Alejandre was re-elected in 2018 and 2022. He began his third consecutive four-year term in January 2023. Raised in San Bernardino County, his career in education has included service as a teacher, vice principal, principal, and director of fiscal services before joining San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) in 2008 as assistant superintendent of Business Services. He later became deputy superintendent, overseeing all operations of SBCSS.
Throughout his tenure, Alejandre has employed a collective impact approach, working collaboratively with educators, families, agencies, and community stakeholders to provide advocacy, leadership and services for nearly 400,000 PK–12 students across San Bernardino County.
Among the highlights of Alejandre’s service as county superintendent are creating impactful and innovative programs tailored specifically for students in alternative education programs, nurturing the Cradle to Career Roadmap, implementing Footsteps2Brillance and targeting early literacy, initiating “Systems of Support,” being president of the California County Superintendents coalition, revamping the Alliance for Education to strengthen the alignment and connection of business and community organizations to education and workforce development, and championing student voice, equity, and access.
In recognition of his fierce advocacy for education, Alejandre was named California Superintendent of the Year in 2022 by the Association of California School Administrators.
Under his leadership, SBCSS achieved significant milestones, including:
- Establishing the annual alternative education graduation program and ceremony honoring SBCSS students for earning high school diplomas,
- Launching the one-of-a-kind countywide Student Advisory Panel,
- Expanding career technical education opportunities aligned to in-demand industries,
- Growing AVID participation to the highest levels in the country,
- Increasing access to visual and performing arts for students countywide,
- Strengthening family and community engagement initiatives and expanding early learning programs,
- Advancing digital connectivity to close the technology gap for underserved communities,
- Supporting efforts that significantly raised countywide graduation rates,
- Developing SBCSS Grow Within initiative to provide a pathway for employees aspiring to transition into teaching roles or further their professional development,
- Overseeing major upgrades to modernize facilities and learning environments for students and staff,
- Maintaining a fiscally sound organization built to support our districts and communities well into the future.
Reflecting on these achievements, Alejandre shared, “I want to thank my colleagues, staff, supporters, and the residents of San Bernardino County for your support, encouragement and partnership. Every accomplishment we’ve achieved has been the result of our shared commitment to transforming lives through education.”
Alejandre explained that his decision to retire was guided by personal priorities. “I want to be fully present for my family and spend more time with the people I love most,” he said. “Public service requires long hours and constant focus, and I believe this is the right moment to give my best where it is needed most.”
Alejandre noted that by announcing his decision now, he hopes to ensure a smooth transition. “My priority is to leave this office in a strong position for the next leader to continue the important work ahead,” he said.
“As I approach the end of my term in January 2027, my dedication to supporting our schools, students and communities will remain strong,” he added. “I look forward to continuing my involvement in initiatives that enhance education throughout San Bernardino County.”
In addition to his educational leadership, Alejandre has served more than 34 years in active duty and reserve service with the United States Air Force, which has shaped his leadership with a foundation of integrity, discipline and a deep commitment to service.
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