To the San Marino Unified School District, Board of Education President Shelley Ryan is often looked to as its North Star.
With her loyal commitment to education and passion for children steering her intuitive compass, Ryan continues to illuminate SMUSD’s path toward a bright future.
Ryan’s light as a leader has shone so intensely that the Association of California School Administrators saw her worthy of a Golden Apple Award for Outstanding Service, which she accepted on Feb. 27.
She was joined by other ACSA recipients at Frontrunner Restaurant in the Santa Anita Park in the presence of superintendents, board members and administrators from neighboring school districts, which included Arcadia, La Cañada Flintridge, South Pasadena and Temple City.
The Golden Apple Award is a prestigious recognition given to volunteers for significant contributions to education.
“Being honored with such an award for one’s dedication, innovation and impact in the field of education is special, because it acknowledges the efforts to improve learning outcomes for students and inspires others to do the same,” Ryan told the Tribune.
“Receiving the Golden Apple Award is a profound and humbling experience. The news of receiving such an esteemed honor evoked emotions of surprise, gratitude, and a sense of validation for hard work and dedication to children and education.”
Ryan’s journey in education governance began in 2013 when she was elected to the Board of Education. Since then, she has served three terms, with three tenures as president, totaling 11 years of service.
Superintendent Linda de la Torre touted Ryan’s compassionate approach to leadership, which she said has ignited passion and unity, and fostered a culture of support and empowerment internally.
“Throughout her tenure, Ryan’s leadership has been likened to that of a guiding star, navigating the district through many difficult challenges with grace, dignity and intelligence,” de la Torre said at the awards ceremony. “She has been a steadfast advocate for equity and inclusivity, ensuring that every decision made prioritizes the education and well-being of all students, irrespective of background or circumstance. Her visionary leadership has set the tone for innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement within the district.”
During the length of her SMUSD volunteerism career, Ryan said she’s proud of many of the accomplishments that she has contributed to, including the top-performing school rankings, having all San Marino campuses named California Distinguished and Blue Ribbon schools, and the implementation of Common Core State Standards in English language arts and math.
“These milestones hold significance because they directly contribute to the betterment of education in the lives and positive experiences for students,” said Ryan, who also noted that she is also happy with the district’s multitude of programs, such as its integration of mental health/social-emotional and wellness programs, computer science and coding programs, dual enrollment programs with PCC, dual language immersion program, integrated medical arts program, Caltech STEM research course and San Marino High School’s humanities course in partnership with the Huntington Library, which earned a Golden Bell Award.
In her role as president, Ryan said her duties require transparency, accountability and fostering a supportive environment for students, teachers and the community. It is a duty she handles with responsibility and care.
“Serving as the president of the San Marino Unified School District’s Board of Education is a position of great honor and responsibility,” Ryan said. “The role involves overseeing important policies, making decisions that impact the educational experience of students, and collaborating with various community leaders and stakeholders to ensure the success of the school district. … I am passionate about children, so volunteering on the Board of Education in advancing educational resources, mentoring students, enhancing the educational experience and making a positive difference in the lives of students and the broader community are the stories of my professional and personal life.”
In the broader realm of public education, Ryan has contributed to curriculum design, peer counseling, conflict mediation programs, as well as teaching various subjects like English, U.S. history and English language development in the Alhambra Unified School District. Today, she serves as a full-time administrator at Ynez Elementary School in Monterey Park, demonstrating her multifaceted engagement in education at both district and school levels.
Beyond her role in education, Ryan has volunteered her time in various capacities, including serving on the Pasadena City College president’s AAPI Advisory Committee, the Asian Pacific Islander School Board Members Association and the SMUSD Academic Advisory Committee, among others. Reflecting her deep-rooted care for holistic community development, her involvement also extends to community organizations like the San Marino City Club, the Friends of the Crowell Library board and the San Marino Chamber of Commerce.
Fittingly, at the awards ceremony, a star was named after Ryan, symbolizing her enduring impact on the educational landscape in San Marino. A poem composed for the occasion was also read aloud to guests, underscoring the North Star’s shining presence as a symbol of hope and inspiration in the sphere of education. In part, the poem reads:
“Like a star, Shelley shimmers
with unwavering grace,
Embracing inclusivity and unity,
in every space.
Her commitment, a celestial art,
As she navigates, with a steadfast heart.
So let us honor, this stellar guide,
Whose light of leadership shall never hide.
An outstanding volunteer, bright and true,
A shining star in the educational view.”
First published in the March 7 issue of the San Marino Tribune
