SLOCOE attendees, from left to right: Joe Koski, Amber Gallagher, Melanie Crawford, Chris Balogh, Hugo Bastidos, Superintendent James Brescia, Michael Specchierla
The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education (SLOCOE), in partnership with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) – San Luis Obispo Charter, proudly hosted the 2025 San Luis Obispo County Administrator Awards—an annual celebration honoring administrators whose leadership, vision, and dedication elevate public education throughout our county.
This year’s event once again recognized school administrators who exemplify excellence in leadership, foster positive and inclusive school cultures, and contribute meaningfully to student achievement, staff development, and community engagement. The celebration reflected our shared commitment to supporting educational leaders who consistently go above and beyond in shaping the future of San Luis Obispo County schools.
We extend heartfelt congratulations to the 2025 ACSA Region 13 Administrators of the Year, including a special recognition for Melanie Crawford, SLOCOE’s Director of Continuous Improvement & Support, who was named Curriculum and Instruction Administrator of the Year. Her collaborative approach and passion for empowering educators and students continue to make a significant impact across our school communities.
“I am honored to receive this award given the group of leaders countywide I have the pleasure of serving alongside,” Crawford shared. “It is the collective commitment of teachers, principals and other district leaders to systems improvement and learning that gives me purpose.”
Eric Prater, Ed.D., Superintendent of the Year honoree from San Luis Coastal Unified School District, also reflected on the meaning of the recognition: “This recognition is humbling. It belongs to a community that leads with compassion, a staff that shows up with courage, and students who give us purpose. Together, we are building futures that will outlast all of us.”
Event Recap
Held on December 8, 2025, at the Wayfarer Hotel in San Luis Obispo, the celebration brought together administrators from across the county for an evening of connection and recognition. Guests were welcomed with appetizers at 5:00 p.m., creating a warm and collegial atmosphere before the program began. At 5:30 p.m., the formal award announcements commenced, honoring all administrators in attendance and spotlighting this year’s distinguished award recipients. The gathering served as a meaningful opportunity to celebrate excellence, strengthen relationships, and acknowledge the enduring dedication of leaders who support students, staff, and public education throughout San Luis Obispo County.
Recognizing Transformational Leaders
Jennifer Gaviola, Superintendent of Cayucos Elementary School District and President of ACSA Region 13 SLO Charter, reflected on the strength of leadership showcased at the event:
“As a superintendent and as President of ACSA Region 13 SLO Charter, it is a true privilege to celebrate these outstanding administrators. They are thoughtful, visionary leaders who lead with integrity, compassion, and high expectations. I am deeply proud of my colleagues and grateful for the collective impact they have on public education across San Luis Obispo County.”
She also shared:
“These awards reflect the strength of collaboration in San Luis Obispo County. ACSA is honored to partner with the SLO County Office of Education in lifting up leaders who embody excellence, innovation, and service. Together, we are committed to recognizing the people who quietly and consistently make a profound difference in the lives of students and communities.”
And finally:
“Educational leadership is about far more than systems and structures—it’s about people. The administrators we honor are transformational leaders who show up every day with courage, heart, and an unwavering commitment to students, families, and staff. We are incredibly proud to recognize colleagues whose influence strengthens not only their schools, but our entire county.”
A Celebration of Leadership
The 2025 San Luis Obispo County Administrator Awards served as a powerful reminder of the dedication and expertise that continue to move public education forward in our region. We are grateful for the administrators who lead with heart, purpose, and vision—and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.
Congratulations again to the 2025 honorees!
