Board Members

Luz Maria Cabral

Board President 2026

Representing Trustee Area #1

Term expires 2026

Ms. Cabral's family moved to Santa Maria in 1992 from Los Angeles. Her parents started their own business, selling fruits and vegetables at the local swap meet for more than 25 years. She attended El Camino Junior High and Santa Maria High School. In 2002, Ms. Cabral received her degree in Black Studies from UCSB, and in 2006 she received a Master’s Degree in Latin American Studies. She works for the Department of Social Service CalWORKs program in Santa Maria, working closely with local families.

“COVID was a difficult time for everyone. Data shows that children have fallen back on reading and social development. There are rising mental health problems,” Ms. Cabral said. “I want to be part of the group that helps with their recovery, so I ran for School Board. I plan to listen to our educators, parents, and staff to come up with the best solutions to continue to provide the best education for students in Santa Maria-Bonita School District.”
 

Ricky Lara 

Board Vice President 2025

Representing Trustee Area #2

Term expires 2026

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Ricardo Valencia

Board Member 2026

Representing Trustee Area #4

Term Expires 2028

Ricardo Valencia is a high school educator who grew up in Guadalupe and Santa Maria. He knew he wanted to become a teacher since he was in 10th grade at Santa Maria High School (SMHS). His dream was to return to his community to ensure young people have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams. He majored in Ethnic Studies at UC Berkeley and received a full ride scholarship to Tufts University for his Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT). He taught in diverse public schools in Boston prior to teaching at SMHS.

Mr. Valencia was elected to the SMBSD Board in November of 2020. 

Contact Mr. Valencia