MUSD leader Cheryl Jordan receives ACSA State Superintendent of Year Award

At the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Leadership Summit on Nov. 2-4 in Sacramento, Milpitas Unified School District leader Cheryl Jordan was formally honored as the 2023 State Superintendent of the Year, a special moment she shared with her family, the members of the MUSD Board of Education, and Santa Clara County and MUSD leaders.

“I was stunned when I learned of this incredible honor as there are so many who lead their districts in amazing ways both in Santa Clara County and throughout California. I learn from my SCC superintendent colleagues who share their insights and ideas about leading from this seat. My mentors in MUSD and throughout my life along with ACSA have been an integral part of my leadership development,” Superintendent Jordan shared.

“The dynamic and purposeful leaders within MUSD and our Milpitas community are a part of this recognition, together we are creating a world class educational experience for All Learners. My husband and son have steadfastly supported the work I do. I am thrilled and humbled to have received this recognition that illuminates all of our efforts as one in a Culture of We,” she continued.

The ACSA summit brings together educators at all levels of administration in an annual awards celebration banquet while providing opportunities for invaluable networking and professional development on current critical leadership and educational issues. ACSA , established in 1971, is the largest umbrella organization for school leaders in the nation, serving more than 16,000 school leaders throughout California.

“While the 2023 State Superintendent of the Year Award is awarded to only one individual, Supt. Jordan will be the first to tell you that she shares this honor with her colleagues, community partners and stakeholders,” MUSD Board President Chris Norwood said. “She always works through our ‘Build A Culture of We’ lens. On a daily basis, she depends on collaboration, teamwork, and a shared vision of leadership and service to students and their families. I am thankful to the ASCA nominating and selection committee for recognizing her and her leadership of the Milpitas Unified School District.”

She was one of four MUSD leaders to receive ACSA Region 8 awards; the others being Giuliana Brahim (Adult Education Administrator of the Year), Mary Jude Doerpinghaus (Student Services Administrator of the Year) and Kelly Ng (Classified Administrator of the Year). Jordan was then named California’s state champion among ACSA’s 19 geographic regions.

Supt. Jordan, who began as a teacher intern in 1989 at Calaveras Hills HS and Thomas Russell MS before becoming a site leader and, ultimately, the district chief, has long established a climate of equity and inclusion. She has served on and chaired various state, region, county and community board of directors, including the Santa Clara County Superintendents’ Association, Milpitas Rotary Club, the South Bay Consortium for Adult Education, Santa Clara County Construction Careers Association, and ACSA Region 8.