SAN DIMAS/LA VERNE – Chaparral-Vista High School Dean of Students Kendra Lewis has been recognized by the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) as its 2026 Region 15 Promising Administrator of the Year, highlighting her leadership, innovation, and deep commitment to equity in education and student success.

Lewis is now in her third year at Chaparral-Vista High, after serving more than 10 years as a math and AVID teacher in another district. Lewis turned to administration because she wanted to make an even bigger impact on student success.

“As educators, we have a responsibility to hold our students to high expectations while also giving them grace, because they are young and they are going to make mistakes,” Lewis said. “Our job is to help them learn from their mistakes, and prepare them for success in life.”

As Dean of Students, Lewis handles the day-to-day discipline in class, tracks student attendance, works with struggling students, and supports staff with lessons and class management. But for many Chaparral-Vista students and staff, Lewis’ impact is immeasurable.

Chaparral-Vista senior Natalie Gonzalez said she feels that Lewis’ greatest assets are her willingness to listen and her determination to help students succeed. Gonzalez recalls that when her brother was having problems with math, Lewis, the former math teacher, took the time to tutor him until he earned 100% on his math test. Gonzalez is also a big fan of Lewis’ efforts to boost student morale.

“Because of Mrs. Lewis, we now have intervention classes and a game room. When you earn back credits through intervention, you get access to the game room, which is a privilege and a reward,” Gonzalez said. “Mrs. Lewis is the perfect ‘promising administrator’ because she makes school a better place for all of us to learn and succeed every day.”

Lewis’ background as a math teacher has helped more than one student achieve their goal of graduating high school. One former Chaparral-Vista student had serious doubts that he could overcome being incarcerated and graduate with his classmates. Seeing the student struggle with math, Lewis took the time to tutor him in her office; his scores rose, and he was able to attend commencement ceremonies.

“This student simply did not believe he could graduate. Seeing him walk and proudly receive his diploma, that has been my most rewarding experience,” Lewis said. “My favorite thing about being a teacher was always helping struggling students. I became more patient and developed empathy for my kids. As a mother of two, I feel like I have two families: my children at home, and my students.”

Under Lewis’ guidance, Chaparral-Vista’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program continues to flourish, with Lewis helping to refine the way behavioral data is tracked, analyzed, and used. Through Lewis’ efforts, positive student behavior has increased and classroom removals and suspensions have notably decreased.

“Kendra Lewis embodies the leadership potential, vision, and impact this ACSA award was designed to recognize,” Chaparral-Vista Counselor Valentin Trejo said. “For a new administrator, her ability to lead change, build trust, and produce measurable outcomes is exceptional.”

Lewis has embraced Chaparral-Vista campus culture, eagerly participating in the school’s annual horseshoes and cornhole competitions, and serving as a judge for culinary competitions. Lewis has accompanied students and counselors on field trips, including visits to the Museum of Tolerance and, occasionally, a college campus.

“Kendra Lewis stands out as a pillar of excellence within our school, consistently elevating the standards of professionalism, service, and leadership,” Chaparral-Vista Principal Sean Casey said. “She is not only a valued and respected member of our team, but also a mentor and inspiration to her peers. Her empathy and vision are just two reasons why she is one of the most inspiring educators and leaders I have had the privilege to work alongside.”

PHOTO: 

BUSD_ACSA_LEWIS: Chaparral-Vista High School Dean of Students Kendra Lewis has been honored by the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) as its 2026 Region 15 Promising Administrator of the Year.