Candidate A: Valentyna Banner

Dr. Valentyna Garcia Banner is a dedicated educator and leader committed to the belief that all students are capable of brilliance and deserve access to high-level mathematics. She holds a Masters in Curriculum and Teaching from USD and a Masters in Teaching K-8th Mathematics from SDSU.

She serves as the Director of Academic Achievement and Founding Member at a San Diego Title one TK-8th charter focused on social justice, inquiry, leadership and social-emotional learning. Her strategic oversight of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and student programs helped the school earn the prestigious 2025 National Blue Ribbon Award for efforts in closing the achievement gap.

With a doctorate in mathematics and science from San Diego State University, Dr. Banner's influence extends beyond her school site. She is a Teaching Consultant for the San Diego Area Writing Project, where she coordinates youth writing camps. She also supports the next generation by supervising early career teachers for the San Diego County Office of Education and teaching credential courses in the PK-3 program. She is a math coach consultant providing classroom based coaching to schools and districts.

A recipient of the Benjamin Banneker Exemplary Mathematics Teachers of African American Students award, Dr. Banner brings her passion for high-quality instruction to every endeavor.

Publications:

Banner, V. R. (2025). Math Initiatives: How Principals’ Understanding of the Core Ideas Shape Implementation and Sustainability (Doctoral dissertation, San Diego State University).
Championing Leadership and Digital Skills in a High-Needs School
Op-Ed: Golden State Teacher Grant Program

Candidate B: Write-in