L.K. Monroe has had many titles in her more than three decades in education —the one she continues to wear most proudly is that of educator.
Bespoke Style
Systems Strategist
She became a teacher, like her mother and grandmother before her, after spending the first part of her career managing and leading several education-related nonprofits and governmental agencies.
Early on she had the honor of serving as a Legislative Intern for Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm during her last term in office. Throughout her career, her passion for the mental health and well-being of all students, as well as her unwavering focus on equity and justice have been a guiding force.
In 2011, L.K. transitioned to the Alameda County Office of Education. She eventually served as Associate Superintendent and in 2014, successfully ran for the office of Alameda County Superintendent of Schools to succeed the retiring Superintendent. She was sworn in January 2015 and served two terms over eight years. She was also privileged to serve as president of the California County Superintendents — a post she held throughout the pandemic. During her tenure, she worked to position the ACOE as a model of social justice in action.
L.K. is now the Principal and Founder of a Social Purpose Corporation called TeamED Up for Good whose mission is to support athletes, artists, and philanthropists committed to doing good to make responsible and long-lasting investments in the communities they care about through education.
L.K. holds a degree from the Sol Price School of Public Policy at the University of Southern California, a teaching credential from Holy Names University, and her administrative credential from the national New Leaders educational leadership program. She resides in Oakland and has two adult children.
Public School Flashback
As a third-generation educator — the classroom where I spent most of my time was my mother’s. My mother was a masterful teacher. I always enjoyed watching her engage with her students, but the interactions that left the biggest impression on me were those with other adults in the building. I will never forget that day in 1973 when she was the first teacher to wear a pantsuit to school. I remember the conversation at the dinner table as she recounted being called into the principal’s office — as a teacher — to be reprimanded. Her clear communication style and ability to stand up for what was right not only improved the lives of her students, but her colleagues as well. She eventually went on to become the award-winning principal of that school and blazed the trail for me to become the leader I am today. Thanks, Mom!