Placentia, Calif. (September 9, 2025): The Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) Board of Education is pleased to name distinguished educator, Dr. Kym LeBlanc-Esparza, as the new Superintendent.
Dr. Kym brings over three decades of experience in education, having served as a teacher, principal, director, and superintendent. Most recently, she was Deputy Superintendent of Jeffco Public Schools, Colorado’s second-largest district, where she oversaw 74,000 students across more than 145 schools, 14,000 employees, and a $1.2 billion budget. She is credited with advancing districtwide strategic planning, school redesign initiatives, and equity-focused programs to improve outcomes for all students.
Before arriving in Jeffco, Dr. Kym served as Superintendent of Archuleta School District in Colorado, leading a district of around 2,000 students, and as Rocky Mountain States Director for AVID Center, where she supported district expansion and promoted college- and career-readiness programs across the region.
She also served as Superintendent of the Newberg School District in Oregon, where she improved graduation rates, cut dropout rates in half, expanded mental health services, and administered a $28 million bond to upgrade facilities and expand STEM and alternative education opportunities.
Along the way, Dr. Kym held leadership positions in Adams 12 Five Star School District, Pueblo School District 60, and Boulder Valley School District. She has also contributed as adjunct faculty at the University of Denver, Western Colorado University, and George Fox University.
“The Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District is humbled and honored to welcome such a well-rounded leader as Dr. Kym,” noted Board President Marilyn Anderson. “She brings vision, purpose, and empathy, along with a proven track record of success and a wealth of K-12 experience. I am truly thrilled for the leadership she will provide, her unwavering focus on students, and her innovative approach to education. With her strong work ethic, can-do attitude, and deep knowledge of public education, I am confident she will guide PYLUSD into an even brighter future.”
The Board wishes to extend its appreciation to Dr. Kym and each of the applicants who showed interest in the position. Trustees also want to express their gratitude to PYLUSD employees, parents, students, community members, and The Cosca Group search advisers for their valuable input throughout this process. Dr. Allan Mucerino will continue to serve as Superintendent, ensuring a smooth transition before Dr. Kym officially begins on October 6, 2025.