Laura Barba Appointed New Senior Director of Special Education for Pasadena Unified

Laura Barba (Photo – PUSD)

Pasadena Unified School District has named Laura Barba as its new Senior Director of Special Education, bringing more than 20 years of experience in supporting students with diverse learning needs.

By News Desk

Laura Barba has served as PUSD’s Coordinator of Comprehensive Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CCEIS) since May 2025. In that role, she led districtwide efforts to reduce disproportionality, strengthen multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), and expand professional learning for educators. Her work focused on improving equitable practices and ensuring students received timely, targeted interventions.

Before joining PUSD, Barba served as Director of Special Education for Farmersville Unified School District and held leadership positions in alternative education, student support, and program development across multiple districts. She has also contributed to the preparation of future educators through university partnerships and mentorship programs.

Barba holds a Master’s degree in Education from Pacific Christian College and a Bachelor’s degree from Southern California College of Business and Law. Her professional credentials include administrative services; multiple subjects teaching; cross-cultural, language and academic development; special education; and pupil services.

District officials say her extensive background and commitment to inclusive education will support ongoing efforts to strengthen services for students with disabilities and enhance collaboration across schools.

Laura Barba is expected to begin her new role immediately.