Dr. Diane Lara Lira is a dedicated educational leader and advocate for equity in education. As the Deputy Superintendent of Instruction for Fresno County, she has played a pivotal role in shaping educational policies and practices that ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed. Dr. Lira's work focuses on supporting diverse student populations, fostering inclusive learning environments, and leading initiatives that promote student well-being and academic achievement.
With over 20 years of experience in education, Dr. Lira has served in various roles that have allowed her to influence change at both the school and district levels. Her career began as an elementary and secondary migrant school teacher at a rural school in Kerman Unified School District, where she was known for creating equitable and rigorous learning environments. She then transitioned into leadership roles, including Principal of a rural school that thrived, consistently outperforming the state average on the Smarter Balance state assessments.
Dr. Lira’s expertise extends beyond the classroom. As the Director of Pupil Personnel Services and later as Assistant Superintendent of Personnel, she has managed complex educational systems and implemented innovative programs. Her leadership during this period was instrumental in keeping students safe and ensuring continuity in their education.
Dr. Lira’s educational background is equally impressive. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Supervision, as well as a Master’s in Education from California State University, Fresno. Her commitment to professional growth and her passion for education are evident in her continuous pursuit of learning and development.
A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Lira’s journey is deeply rooted in her personal experiences as a migrant student and English Language Learner. These experiences have fueled her dedication to providing equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of their background. Her leadership style is characterized by collaboration, empathy, and a relentless focus on student success.
Dr. Lira strongly believes in the power of collaboration to support workforce decisions, particularly in preparing Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) educators to effectively serve multilingual learners. She actively works to build partnerships and foster collective efforts that ensure educators are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of their students. Dr. Lira’s contributions to education have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Association of Mexican American Educators (AMAE) Educator of the Year. Her work continues to inspire educators and leaders alike, as she remains committed to the mission of transforming education for the betterment of all students.