-Written by Fall 2025 Intern Sophia Pacitti
For Hispanic Heritage Month, my fellow interns and I had the opportunity to interview some of our own Hispanic, AZ List endorsed candidates. I had been interested in learning more about school boards, the members and the responsibilities of this unpaid, elected position. Claudia Mendoza is a Chandler Unified School District Governing Board Member with nearly three decades of experience in K-20 education. Claudia has a strong interest in education. Not only has she served as principal at various levels, promoted educational outreach and spearheaded key initiatives to promote college readiness and family engagement, she was recently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. This time of year is the perfect opportunity for us to reflect on our Hispanic Heritage in conjunction with our experiences working in the public sector. I had the pleasure of asking Claudia a few questions in honor of this special time of year.
1. Who are you and what do you do in your current role?
My name is Claudia Mendoza, and I currently serve as the Director of Early Literacy & Early Childhood at Roosevelt School District. I have served as a K-12 principal for 13 years and now also serve as a Governing Board Member for the Chandler Unified School District. With nearly 30 years in education, I lead with a student-centered approach, supporting teachers, engaging families, and creating inclusive learning environments. As a board member, I focus on policy, budget oversight, and advocating for equitable opportunities for all students.
2. What, if anything, do you believe people do not fully understand about the school board member role and its importance?
Many people think school board members attend meetings, but the role carries significant responsibility. Board members set policies, approve budgets, evaluate the superintendent, and make decisions that directly impact classroom instruction, student well-being, and teacher support. It is a position of public trust that shapes the direction of a district. Effective board members must listen to the community, understand student needs, and make decisions grounded in what is best for all students, not politics or personal agendas.
3. What does this Heritage Month mean to you? How do you celebrate?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latinx community. For me, it is both personal and empowering. I celebrate by sharing stories of my family’s cultural traditions, uplifting Latino students and educators, and making space for our voices and accomplishments to be seen and heard. It’s also a time to educate others, celebrate our resilience, and reflect on the responsibility we have to open doors for the next generation.
4. Can you speak on the importance of having Hispanic representation on a school board in a place as diverse as Arizona?
Representation matters. When students and families see leaders who share their language, culture, or lived experiences, it builds trust and connection. Hispanic representation ensures that policies reflect the needs of a large portion of our community and that diverse perspectives are included in decision-making. In a state like Arizona, where many students are Hispanic, it is essential to have board members who understand English language learning and development in the context of education, cultural identity, and the unique strengths and challenges of our communities. It’s not just about diversity, it’s about equity and voice.
5. What advice do you have for young Latinx leaders who want to make a difference today?
Believe that your voice matters because it does. Don’t wait for permission to lead or for the “perfect” moment. Start where you are: speak up, get involved, volunteer, ask questions, and find mentors. Be proud of your culture and let it guide your leadership. Leadership is not about titles, it’s about impact. Stay authentic, stay focused on serving others, and never underestimate the power of your story to inspire change. Our community needs you. Our students need you. And the future is brighter because you’re in it.
Claudia’s responses highlight her unwavering commitment to her students, the parents and her entire community. I had a conversation earlier this week with another AZ List endorsed candidate member of the Maricopa Unified School District Governing Board and much of the same values and beliefs were certainly echoed between these two committed individuals. I believe we have lots to learn from someone like Claudia, certainly about the reality of being a school board member, but more than that, of how planting roots, dedicating your precious time to your community and making yourself accessible to others can make a significantly positive impact and touch the lives of thousands of people, myself included. As a fellow Hispanic woman, I can say with lots of confidence and admiration that Claudia is an inspiration to all of the young Hispanic individuals in our communities who are unsure of and possibly apprehensive to make our voices be heard. Claudia’s responses remind us of the importance of staying true to our strong Hispanic values of remaining devoted to our families and communities and setting examples for others to follow.
-Sophia Pacitti
October 20th, 2025