Lynda Leigh
Lynda Leigh is a dedicated advocate and retired educator with over four decades of experience in teaching and literacy. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from San José State University and a Master of Education in Adult and Continuing Education from the University of California, Santa Cruz. During her career, she specialized in alternative education, working extensively with at-risk youth, pregnant students, and those recently released from juvenile detention. Lynda also spent a decade teaching adult literacy at Soledad State Prison and was recognized as International Teacher of the Year in 1986 for her contributions to adult education.
Since retiring, Lynda has focused on community service and advocacy. She volunteers with the Welcoming Network, supporting asylum seekers from countries including Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Russia, and Ukraine, providing assistance with food distribution, resettlement, and mentorship. She serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children, and participates in the Teen Kitchen Project, delivering nutritious meals to individuals facing serious health challenges. Her work has earned her the Cesar Chavez Community Award in 2019, among other recognitions for long-term service.
Lynda’s professional philosophy centers on the belief that meaningful impact comes from service and education rather than financial reward. She encourages young educators and volunteers to lead with purpose, compassion, and dedication. Through her teaching, Peace Corps service in The Gambia, and ongoing volunteerism, Lynda has consistently demonstrated that influence is built through commitment to helping others and addressing the needs of the most vulnerable in society.
• Teaching Credential
• University of California, Santa Cruz - MEd
• International Teacher of the Year Award (1986)
• Cesar Chavez Community Award (2019)
• CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates
• Welcoming Network
• Teen Kitchen Project
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to pursuing work that I am genuinely passionate about and maintaining a strong commitment to service and literacy initiatives across diverse settings.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I advise young women entering education to do so because they truly love the work, not for the financial rewards. Teaching is not a high-paying profession, but the impact you make is invaluable. Education is one of the most powerful tools for change, and while we are passionate about what we do, educators also deserve to be fairly compensated.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in education right now is the persistently low pay for educators, along with significant funding cuts to adult education programs. These issues make it difficult to attract, retain, and properly support dedicated professionals in the field.
At the same time, there is tremendous opportunity. By strengthening education, we can improve literacy, civic knowledge, and critical thinking skills—equipping individuals to better understand complex issues and contribute meaningful solutions across society.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life center around supporting children, advancing education, and addressing basic needs such as food security. I believe that learning cannot thrive unless fundamental needs are met.
I am also deeply committed to volunteering, sharing knowledge, and serving my community. Contributing my time and expertise to help others grow and succeed is both a personal responsibility and a meaningful source of fulfillment.
Locations
Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE)
Santa Cruz, CA 95062