Instead of conducting a national search for a leader, two big-city school districts in California chose to look within their own districts.

San Diego Unified School District, the state’s second-largest school district, recently named interim superintendent Fabiola Bagula as its permanent leader.  She is the first Latina to lead the 120,000-student school system.

Bagula, who began her teaching career in San Diego, has served as the district’s interim superintendent since September. Before being named interim superintendent, she was the district’s deputy superintendent.

“Fabi has been building for decades to this moment. She has the character that is appropriate for this work,” said school board president Cody Petterson in a news statement. “She is kind, compassionate, curious, and has conviction. She has the wisdom. She has done decades long work that is the real baseline for leadership.”

Santa Ana Unified School District recently selected veteran educator Lorraine Perez to lead the 35,000-student school district, effective July 1.

For the last five years, Perez has served as the district’s Deputy Superintendent of Educational Services, where she has led key initiatives in teaching and learning, school performance and culture, special education, and other student-centered programs.

“Dr. Perez has earned the trust and respect of our students, families, staff, and community partners,” said school board president Hector Bustos in a news statement. “She is a thoughtful, strategic leader who understands the needs of our district and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to equity, academic excellence, and innovation. We are confident she is the right person to guide SAUSD into the future.”