Dr. Jaime Mendoza-Williams (Dr. Mendoza) is a seasoned educator, social worker, and systems-level leader with over 24 years of experience serving children, youth, and families from marginalized communities. Born and raised in Southeast Los Angeles, his mission is rooted in a lifelong commitment to empowering underserved populations by fostering equitable access to education, mental health, and wellness supports.
Dr. Mendoza began his career as a Teacher Assistant at age 19 and went on to serve as a Psychiatric Social Worker with the Los Angeles Unified School District. His career has spanned major urban centers—including New York City, New Jersey, Miami, and the San Francisco Bay Area—where he has held roles in both direct service and leadership. His most notable positions include Director of Wellness & Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) at Rocketship Public Schools and Vice President of Member Care at a mental health tech startup, where he brought his deep knowledge of trauma-informed care and equitable systems design into the private sector.
Holding a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from California State University, Long Beach, Dr. Mendoza brings a unique blend of clinical insight, instructional leadership, and organizational strategy to every project. His strength lies in building meaningful relationships and leading with authenticity, purpose, and a deep understanding of systems change.
Currently, he serves as a Community Schools & Engagement Coach at the Santa Clara County Office of Education, where he supports school districts across the Bay Area in implementing sustainable, equity-centered community school strategies. As a consultant, Dr. Mendoza specializes in school mental health and wellness, MTSS implementation, and equitable shared leadership and co-governance. His approach is deeply informed by his lived experience, professional journey, and unwavering belief that all students deserve inclusive, innovative, and sustainable pathways to thrive.
Expertise
- Equity, access & inclusion
- School-community partnerships
- Systems change
Education
- Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California
- Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from California State University, Long Beach
