On Wednesday, March 10th during closed session at the Fresno Unified School District Board of Education meeting, our board voted to name Mao Misty Her as our district’s new Deputy Superintendent. This selection makes Misty the highest-ranking Hmong K-12 professional in the nation.
Misty is a Fresno Unified family member in every sense of the word. Misty started as a student with Fresno Unified after her family immigrated to the area when she was just a young girl. She spent her elementary, middle and high school years with our district and upon graduation went to Fresno State to gain a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree all with the intention to return to Fresno Unified to serve. For over 27 years Misty has served in our district, starting as a Bilingual Instructional Aide, an elementary school Teacher, Vice Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent, Instructional Superintendent and now our Deputy Superintendent. Misty is also a proud parent of a Fresno Unified student, and both of her parents served as classified employees with the district for over 30 years each.
Misty brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role of Deputy Superintendent, but most importantly she brings a true and unwavering love for our students, families, staff, and community.
“I can’t think of anyone more fitting to serve alongside me in the role of Deputy Superintendent. We actually became Fresno Unified Principals at the same board meeting in the Spring of 2004, and have continued serving our community for several decades. I am excited to have her serve in this crucial role,” says Superintendent Nelson.
“I lead with compassion, creativity, courage, and a commitment to collaboration so we can strengthen and revitalize our connection with parents and communities. I want to ensure their voices are what is helping to transform our system to best serve our students,” says Deputy Superintendent Her.