Longtime Encinitas Union School District board member Marla Strich was recently named the 2025 Dede Alpert School Board Member of the Year by the San Diego County School Boards Association. At the May 3 “Honoring Our Own” ceremony on May 3, Strich was presented with the award that celebrates a school board member whose leadership, vision, and advocacy have made a significant impact on public education.
Strich was one of several s recognized this year, with honorees selected by the Association of California School s Region 18 Past Presidents’ Committee through a nomination process.
Strich has served on the EUSD board for over 25 years, including six as president. During her tenure, she has demonstrated a commitment to student success and her efforts have helped shape the district’s nationally recognized programs such as the Farm Lab Research and Design Center, the state’s first school-owned organic farm.
According to a district news release, Strich has been a strong advocate for expanding programs in STEM education, health and wellness, social-emotional learning and fostering inclusive school environments. She also spearheaded the launch of a FIRST LEGO League robotics program in Encinitas and played a key leadership role in the successful age of Measure Z, the $158.3 million bond measure approved last November to modernize the district’s nine schools.
Strich additionally serves as a California School Boards Association delegate assembly representative, advocating at the state and federal levels for policies that strengthen public education.
“Marla’s enduring commitment to educational excellence and equity continues to elevate our schools and community,” said EUSD Superintendent Dr. Andrée Grey in the news release. “She brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to leadership that inspires those around her. Marla’s integrity, vision, and tireless advocacy truly reflects the very best of school board leadership.”
