‘Learn, communicate, build’: Modesto’s new superintendent shares 100-day plan
Modesto City Schools’ new superintendent and district alumna, Vanessa Buitrago, has released a 100-day plan outlining her priorities as she begins her tenure.
The plan, which will shape her first months in office, is built around three central themes: learn, communicate and build. Buitrago described these as reflective of her leadership approach, grounded in intentionality, transparency, community and excellence.
The Board of Education voted to appoint Buitrago in March, following the retirement of former superintendent Sara Noguchi.
Buitrago presented the plan during the board meeting Tuesday night — her first since officially stepping into the role on July 1. She stressed the need for collaboration and listening with all educational partners.
“I know that it can be very difficult when you have a leadership change, and it can be disruptive to the system, and so in taking into account what my first 100 days will be, this is really about making sure that we’re moving together and not disrupting the progress that Modesto City Schools has already made,” Buitrago said.
During the learning phase, Buitrago plans to visit every school site and engage with each department to better understand the district from the inside out. She said she also will examine data that highlights the district’s assets and needs. This stage will involve listening closely to the community and identifying key staff members to help ensure a smooth leadership transition.
The second phase focuses on communication. Buitrago said she intends to continue regular meetings with both community and district stakeholders while evaluating how the district gathers and uses feedback. She said she wants to ensure that community members have opportunities to get to know district leadership better and vice versa. The plan states that findings from their learnings will be shared and will cover topics including student performance, staffing conditions, finances and climate.
“If we are going to serve students, we have to not only invest in them but we will have to invest in the adults that care for them and educate them,” Buitrago said.
In the final phase, build, Buitrago will use what she has learned to help shape district priorities and set strategic goals. A summary report outlining key findings and proposed next steps is expected to be presented to the board in December. That report will highlight strengths and areas for growth, which will guide future decisions and initiatives.
“It seems like you’ve stepped out into the community,” said board member John Ervin III. “I’ve heard nothing but great things in the community [from] people who have met you, people who have sat down and felt that you were so genuine in your passion for Modesto City Schools.”
This story was originally published July 30, 2025 at 10:29 AM.
