Dr. Ben Gonzales, Ed.D., currently serves as the Executive Director of Safe and Supportive Schools at the San Mateo County Office of Education, a position held since July 2024. Prior to this role, Dr. Gonzales was the Senior Director of Student and Family Support at Aspire Public Schools from October 2019 to July 2024 and has held various roles in education, including Coordinator of Health and Wellness at Santa Clara Unified School District and Assistant Principal at Fremont Union High School District. Dr. Gonzales's experience extends back to 2005, with significant contributions to student services and school management. Academically, Dr. Gonzales earned a Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership from USC Rossier School of Education, alongside a Master's degree and Administrative Services Credential from the University of the Pacific, and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from San Jose State University.