Dr. Susan Salcido has devoted her career to public education in Santa Barbara County and is a proud graduate of Santa Maria public schools and UCSB. With 29 years of experience in public education—as a teacher, coach, principal, district administrator, and since 2017, as County Superintendent—Superintendent Salcido oversees a $150 million budget and more than 200 programs that support 20 school districts, 10 charter schools, and over 70,000 students across the county.
A CHAMPION FOR
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SCHOOLS
SUSAN'S LEADERSHIP
is grounded in four key priorities that reflect her values, vision, and
commitment to students, families, and schools across Santa Barbara County.
Preschool Foundations
Under Susan’s leadership, the Santa Barbara County Education Office (SBCEO) is strengthening the foundation of learning by expanding access to high-quality early care and education. Through the Early Care and Education Department, SBCEO administers $75 million in funding, supports 5,900 children through childcare subsidies, and operates 11 preschool centers across the county. The team delivers dozens of trainings each year to early educators on inclusive practices, nutrition, and social-emotional development—ensuring every child begins school ready to learn.
Safety & Wellness
Susan leads with care—working to keep every child safe, supported, and ready to learn. She launched the countywide School Safety Symposium series to strengthen collaboration between schools and law enforcement, including the countywide adoption of the Standard Response Protocols. Susan's teams have expanded mental health and wellness services while also operating schools for incarcerated youth, and supporting students in foster care or experiencing homelessness.
Academic Rigor
Susan and her team make academic success a countywide priority—advancing literacy, math, science, and computer science. Under her leadership, SBCEO has expanded reading initiatives, strengthened teacher preparation, and built college and career pathways through partnerships with local businesses and industries. She supports educators through recruitment, recognition, coaching, and professional development that elevate teaching and learning at every level.
Connecting School Communities
Susan builds collaborations that strengthen education countywide. She created a Student Advisory Council to hear directly from students, expanded arts and cultural programs, and launched events that unite families and schools around issues such as fentanyl prevention, educator housing, and artificial intelligence. Her team leads professional networks that connect educators and leaders so they can share expertise and solve challenges together.