BUENA PARK, CA – Buena Park School District’s Board of Education unanimously appointed longtime leader Dr. Yvette Cantu to serve as the District’s interim superintendent during the Feb. 21 Board meeting.

Dr. Cantu was approved for the District’s top administrative role following the announced departure of Dr. Ramon Miramontes, who accepted a position as deputy superintendent of instructional services at the Orange County Department of Education.

“When I started working in Buena Park School District, I made a promise to our families to ensure their children have the best possible education and I aim to keep that promise as I now step into a larger role,” Dr. Cantu said. “I want to thank our wonderful Board of Education, staff members and families for trusting me with this position. I will do all I can to uphold our District’s exceptional legacy.”

In her more than 30 years in education, Dr. Cantu has taught in almost every grade level from kindergarten through seventh grade and served as an elementary principal for 16 years. Dr. Cantu has worked at Buena Park School District since 2018, where she started her tenure as the director of curriculum and instruction before being promoted to chief academic officer in 2020.

Dr. Cantu holds an administrative credential and Master of Education in curriculum and instruction from California State University, Long Beach and a doctorate in education from California State University, Fullerton.

Dr. Cantu will serve as the District’s top official while the Board of Education begins a search for its next superintendent. The Board approved a contract with Leadership Associates, an executive search and leadership develop firm, on March 6 to assist the District with the search and hiring process. The Board aims to select a new superintendent in time for the 2023-24 school year.

“I want to congratulate Dr. Cantu on her new appointment and wish her well as she leads Buena Park School District,” Miramontes said. “It has been an honor and a dream to serve as superintendent of Buena Park School District and I leave with a heavy heart. However, I know the District is in excellent hands with Dr. Cantu.”