About me
Dr. Clara Fernández currently serves as Deputy Superintendent of Alisal Union School District, where she provides leadership and support across departments to ensure systems and practices meet the needs of every student. A Watsonville native, Dr. Fernández built her educational leadership career in Alisal, a community that has deeply shaped her as an educator and leader. Through her work in the district, she has developed a strong commitment to educational equity, collaboration, and student success. Her career spans multiple levels of education, including service as a principal at both the elementary and high school levels, as well as district leadership in Human Resources and Educational Services. These experiences have reinforced her belief in the power of public education to transform lives and strengthen communities. Dr. Fernández holds an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz, two master’s degrees (UC Santa Cruz and San José State University), and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. Her scholarship and practice emphasize inclusive, student-centered learning environments where the whole child—academically, socially, and behaviorally—is supported. As Deputy Superintendent, Dr. Fernández is dedicated to fostering strong partnerships with families, staff, and the broader community to build on Alisal’s proud legacy and expand opportunities for all students to thrive.
