Monica Munguia is a homegrown educator in the Anaheim Elementary School District. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Cal State University of Long Beach in 2009. In 2017, she graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a Master of Arts degree and Credential for School Leadership and Administration. As the child of Mexican immigrant parents, her passion for community and equity is the driving force behind her work. She has found her purpose in public service in the education and political arenas. She has served as a dual language immersion teacher, general education teacher, curriculum coach, and, currently, vice principal in the same elementary school district that she was educated in as a child. She is also an elected delegate for the Democratic Party and has volunteered for various local and state campaigns. Given her own experiences as a student and educator, her research interests include the impact of education on cultural identity and the traits and skills of effective veteran urban educators.