County Superintendent

Dr. Deneen Guss was sworn in as the Monterey County Superintendent of Schools in January 2019 for her first term and began her second term of office in January 2023. Dr. Guss continually supports Monterey County’s 24 local school districts, eight charter schools, and the over 72,000 students they serve.

 

Dr. Guss is a 38-year veteran educator with a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership. She served as a classroom teacher for 10 years, including two years as a teacher in a bilingual program in South Central Los Angeles. She has also served as a college professor, mentor teacher for new teachers, and a master teacher for teacher candidates completing their student teaching experience. She continues to be a strong advocate for the teaching profession. Dr. Guss has been an administrator here in Monterey County for over  27 years serving as an assistant principal, principal, director of curriculum and instruction, associate superintendent of educational services and as district superintendent. Dr. Guss also served as the Deputy Superintendent of the Monterey County Office of Education for 6 years prior to becoming County Superintendent. During her tenure she has received numerous awards for her service in education and her service to the community, including the 2021 Ruth Vreeland Memorial Public Official of the Year award.

 

Dr. Guss serves as a Core Convener for the Bright Futures Cradle to Career Initiative, is a member and current Past Chair of the Monterey County Children’s Council. She also serves on the California County Superintendent's Board of Directors.  Dr. Guss serves on two non-profit boards: Community Foundation for Monterey County and The Bob Hoover Academy. She is also an active Rotarian.

 

With a lens on community and equity, Superintendent Dr. Deneen Guss is focused on strengthening community engagement and improving educational outcomes for Monterey County’s youth.