Her Story
About Hope
Dr. Hope Larios is an accomplished educational leader with more than 20 years of experience dedicated to improving student outcomes, strengthening educators, and building equitable systems within public education. She currently serves as a Coordinator at the Riverside County Office of Education, where she supports 23 school districts through coaching, professional development, and instructional leadership. As an AVID Staff Developer and strategist, she works closely with schools and district leaders to expand college and career readiness initiatives, close opportunity gaps, and create learning environments where every student has the support needed to succeed.
Throughout her career, Dr. Larios has held a variety of roles as a teacher, site administrator, coach, and educational leader, allowing her to develop a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within public education. Her professional focus includes AVID implementation, instructional coaching, staff development, new teacher induction, and educator mentorship. She earned a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration from Northwest Nazarene University, along with an Educational Specialist Degree in Superintendency and District Leadership and multiple graduate degrees focused on education, leadership, and instructional innovation. Her doctoral research examined novice teacher induction and retention, reflecting her commitment to creating sustainable systems that support educators throughout their careers.
Known for her collaborative and people-centered leadership style, Dr. Larios believes that meaningful change begins with relationships, respect, and listening to understand. She is passionate about treating every member of the educational community—from students and paraeducators to teachers, administrators, and superintendents—with equal value and dignity. Through her work in coaching, professional learning, and leadership development, she continues to inspire educators, strengthen school communities, and advance opportunities for students across California. Her dedication to equity, integrity, and continuous improvement reflects her mission of transforming access into lasting impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Hope
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to listen to understand, not just to respond. Taking the time to truly hear someone, acknowledge their feelings, and understand their perspective helps me better support others, build trust, and create positive solutions. I believe emotions drive actions, and understanding those emotions is key to making a meaningful impact.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to not let the first, second, or even third “no” stop you. Rejection does not always mean you are unqualified; often, it comes down to timing, fit, or finding the right opportunity. If you believe in your goals and know the path you want to pursue, keep trying, stay persistent, and trust your abilities.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field is supporting a constantly changing workforce with turnover among principals, district administrators, and teachers. While some teams experience long-term growth, others require help building sustainable systems that can continue beyond individual leaders. Despite these challenges, the greatest opportunity is being able to support and influence people at every level—from paraeducators and students to superintendents—while strengthening connections across K–12 and post-secondary education.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are ethics, respect, and treating every person with the same care and dignity I would show to my own family. Whether I am working with a custodian, a teacher, or a superintendent, I believe everyone plays an important role in making public education successful. It takes a village, and ensuring that every individual feels valued, respected, and heard is essential.
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