SACRAMENTO – Senator John Laird (D–Santa Cruz) has selected Dr. Deneen Guss, Monterey County Superintendent of Schools, as the 2026 Woman of the Year for Senate District 17, recognizing her decades of leadership in public education and her commitment to supporting students, educators, and families throughout Monterey County.

Guss has served as Superintendent of the Monterey County Office of Education since 2019 and began her second term in January 2023. In this role, she provides leadership and strategic oversight for more than 24 school districts, eight charter schools, and over 72,000 students across Monterey County.

“With nearly four decades of service in public education, Dr. Guss has dedicated her career to supporting students and strengthening schools throughout Monterey County,” said Laird. “Her leadership, particularly during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, helped guide schools, educators, and families through an incredibly difficult time.”

Each year, members of the California Legislature recognize outstanding women from their districts as part of the statewide Woman of the Year celebration honoring women who have made significant contributions to their communities. Guss said she was honored to receive the recognition.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized as the Woman of the Year for Senate District 17 and am so grateful for the privilege to work with amazing leaders like Senator John Laird,” said Guss. “It has been a true pleasure to serve in public education for almost four decades, where I have the profound privilege of uplifting our dedicated educators, committed community partners, and loving families in our shared mission to ensure every student succeeds. As I prepare to conclude my final term as County Superintendent, I remain deeply committed to advocating for the educational opportunities and support our students deserve.”

Guss began her career as a classroom teacher, including two years teaching in a bilingual program in South Central Los Angeles. Over the course of her career, she has served in numerous educational leadership roles, including mentor teacher, master teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of curriculum and instruction, associate superintendent, district superintendent, and Deputy Superintendent of the Monterey County Office of Education.

She was first elected Monterey County Superintendent of Schools in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.

Guss holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership and has been a strong advocate for equitable educational systems that support both students and educators. Under her leadership, the Monterey County Office of Education has expanded collaborative partnerships, strengthened community engagement, and worked closely with local school districts to address the evolving needs of students and families.

Beyond her role as Superintendent, Guss serves as a Core Convener for the Bright Futures Cradle to Career Initiative and previously served as Chair of the Monterey County Children’s Council. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the California County Superintendents and on nonprofit boards including the Community Foundation for Monterey County and The Bob Hoover Academy. She is also an active member of the Rotary Club of Salinas.

“Dr. Guss has spent her career supporting students and strengthening public education in Monterey County,” said Laird. “Her commitment to collaboration and expanding opportunities for students has made a real difference for schools, families, and communities across the county.”