Board Member Dee Perry brings to the Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education the perspective of a longtime educator and community member with a deep commitment to student access, equity, and public education.

Elected in 2014, Ms. Perry has been connected to Laguna Beach schools for more than 50 years. She began her career in 1975, teaching a special education preschool class serving both Laguna Beach and Capistrano students. Over the years, she has served in a variety of roles across the district, including elementary special education teacher, speech pathologist at all four school sites, classroom teacher across grade levels, and a specialist in math and science instruction. She also briefly taught math at the high school level. Her children attended LBUSD schools, and she has lived in the Laguna Beach community for many years.

Ms. Perry's decision to seek a seat on the Board grew directly from her advocacy for students with special needs and English Learners. As a classroom teacher, she had concerns about service gaps for these students. When those concerns did not result in change, she filed a legal complaint seeking an independent assessment of district practices and accountability for identified violations. The matter was ultimately resolved without adjudication. Ms. Perry then chose to pursue systemic change by running for the Board. Since joining the Board in 2014, she has seen substantial progress in the district's special education and English Learner programs and remains committed to the students whose needs first prompted her to act. 

As a Board member, Ms. Perry views governance as a shared responsibility grounded in accountability and collaboration. She emphasizes the importance of adhering to Board policies, education code, and labor laws, while also engaging in independent research to support effective oversight. She values working collaboratively with fellow Board members and staff to ensure thoughtful decision-making that reflects the community's needs.

Ms. Perry has been actively involved in several district committees that support student opportunities and safety. She is particularly passionate about her work on College and Career pathways, helping students explore future options and access opportunities to earn college credit while in high school. She has also served on the district’s Arts Committee, advocating for the importance of arts education in supporting creativity and human expression. In addition, her work on the Transportation Committee has helped improve student safety and access, including expanded routes, improved communication systems, and enhanced safety measures. She was also selected by the California Department of Education as one of two Orange County representatives to a statewide arts education committee.

Beyond her Board service, Ms. Perry has remained deeply engaged in the Laguna Beach community. She has served as a docent at the Laguna Art Museum since 2014, been involved with the Art Alliance for Crystal Cove and the Laguna Beach Women’s Club, and volunteered with organizations such as the San Joaquin Marsh, the Laguna Beach Garden Club, and local school gardens. She is also active in several local arts organizations.

Ms. Perry believes that public education is a foundation of democracy, providing all students with opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow as informed and engaged citizens. As part of her public service, she regularly engages with state and local leaders to advocate for education and stay informed on current legislation impacting schools.

Outside of Board service, Ms. Perry enjoys spending time in the Laguna Beach community and participating in local arts and environmental initiatives.