We are thrilled to welcome three outstanding leaders to our administrative team. Each brings a wealth of experience and a deep, unwavering commitment to education. Their passion for supporting our students, staff, and community is evident in their every action, and we are confident in their ability to lead our district to new heights.
Dr. Vanessa Landesfeind, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources
Dr. Landesfeind is very happy to join the Monrovia Unified community and looks forward to supporting all of our employees as they work toward the success of our students. Most recently, she served as the Director of Student Support Services at the Centinela Valley Union High School District. Prior to her district office role, Dr. Landesfeind served as Principal at two comprehensive high schools and Assistant Principal at three schools.
Dr. Landesfeind is very happy to join the Monrovia Unified community and looks forward to supporting all of our employees as they work toward the success of our students. Most recently, she served as the Director of Student Support Services at the Centinela Valley Union High School District. Prior to her district office role, Dr. Landesfeind served as Principal at two comprehensive high schools and Assistant Principal at three schools.
Dr. Landesfeind earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California and her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from California State University Long Beach. In addition to her work in K-12 schools, Dr. Landesfeind has been a CSULB Educational Administration program lecturer since 2009. She is proud to continue supporting future school leaders in the program she attended.
In her free time, Dr. Landesfeind enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and paddleboarding, and she is the proud parent of a Chapman University senior.
Dr. James Drake, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services
We are delighted to introduce Dr. James Drake as our new Assistant Superintendent of Business Services. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Drake is eager to apply his extensive knowledge to benefit the Monrovia Unified community, families, and staff.
We are delighted to introduce Dr. James Drake as our new Assistant Superintendent of Business Services. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Drake is eager to apply his extensive knowledge to benefit the Monrovia Unified community, families, and staff.
Dr. Drake joins MUSD from Monterey County, where he excelled as the Associate Superintendent of Business/HR and Chief Business Official. His professional journey in school finance and operations spans various states, including Illinois and Florida, bringing a diverse perspective to our district.
Dr. Drake holds a Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. from Northern Illinois University and an additional Master's in School Administration from Governor State University. His academic background and practical experience make him a valuable asset to our team.
Dr. Drake enjoys playing the piano and guitar and honing his golf skills in his free time.
Dr. Geoffrey Zamarripa, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Geoffrey Zamarripa as our new Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. With over 45 years of residency in Monrovia, where he attended local schools, it is a profound privilege for Dr. Zamarripa to return to this community.
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Geoffrey Zamarripa as our new Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. With over 45 years of residency in Monrovia, where he attended local schools, it is a profound privilege for Dr. Zamarripa to return to this community.
Dr. Zamarripa's journey in education spans 29 years, most recently as the Director of Special Education for Temple City Unified School District. Before that, he had the distinct honor of serving as the principal at Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School in Monrovia, a role he cherished deeply.
Dr. Zamarripa began his career in the El Monte City School District, where he spent 22 years in various roles, including teacher, TOSA, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Throughout his career, his passion for helping children realize their highest potential, collaborating with educators, and fostering positive community relationships has remained a constant driving force.
Dr. Zamarripa holds a Doctorate in Education from the University of Southern California and is excited to return his extensive experience and dedication to Monrovia Unified School District.
Please join us in welcoming our new leadership team as they work to support our students, staff, and community in achieving continued success.