LaToya was first elected to the BOE in 2023.

​

LaToya Fernandez is a dedicated mother, educator, and activist committed to empowering youth and advancing social justice. An award-winning author and educator, LaToya has developed innovative strategies to close the opportunity gap for students while inspiring fellow teachers and community members to embrace diversity and inclusion.

​

As a State Delegate representing her assembly district, LaToya founded Afro Upris, an influential organization that became an established partner with voting power on the Democratic Central Committee. As Founder and President, she created a platform to educate, support, and empower Black and Latino leaders with political aspirations.

​

Driven by her passion for youth advocacy, LaToya also founded YouthHype, a community-based organization dedicated to uplifting marginalized youth. Under her leadership, YouthHype amplified youth voices on critical issues such as affirmative action, juvenile justice reform, and the LGBTQ youth housing crisis. In recognition of eight years of impactful social justice work, June 19th is celebrated as YouthHype Day in Santa Clara, California.

​

LaToya’s expertise and leadership were recognized by the Mayor of San Jose, where she co-created and led youth boards and committees focused on building a more equitable city. Her contributions included reimagining public safety, participating in police chief selection processes, advocating for equity in transportation, and advancing restorative justice in education.

LaToya’s commitment has earned her congressional recognition, accolades from the California State Assembly and Senate, and awards from the Santa Clara County Commission on the Status of Women. Upon her departure from California, she was honored as one of “Silicon Valley’s Most Influential Women.”

​

After 13 years on the West Coast, LaToya excitedly returned to Connecticut, bringing her passion and experience to drive positive change in education and her community.