James Jimenez

James Jimenez is an equity-centered educational leader with more than 25 years of experience in public education, including over a decade in cabinet-level human resources leadership. Recognized as ACSA Region 18 Human Resources Administrator of the Year (2023), James is known for his integrity, collaboration, and visionary approach to advancing equity and excellence in schools.

Throughout his career, James has led with a deep commitment to people-centered systems that empower educators and strengthen organizational culture. As Associate Superintendent of Personnel Support Services for Poway Unified School District, he oversaw all HR operations —focusing on inclusive hiring, workforce diversity, and sustainable human capital practices. His leadership fostered trust, transparency, and belonging across all employee groups while advancing the district’s equity and continuous improvement goals.

Previously, James served as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources in the Westminster School District and as a Principal and Human Resources Officer in the San Diego Unified School District. His broad experience—from classroom teaching, in a dual language immersion program, to district executive leadership—has equipped him with a holistic understanding of how human capital systems can elevate teaching and learning for all students.

James earned a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from San Diego State University, where he now serves as an Executive Coach with NCUST’s Administrative Services Clear Credential Program. Guided by his belief that ‘people are the heart of educational excellence,’ James is dedicated to cultivating leaders who build trust, foster inclusion, and create systems where every educator and student can thrive.