About Armando

Trustee Armando Urteaga was unanimously appointed by the WUHSD Board of Trustees in January 2026.  He is a dedicated educational leader and advocate for public education, with more than three decades of service to students, families, and the community.

Trustee Urteaga earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology from California State University, Los Angeles, and a Master’s Degree in Educational Management and School Administration from the University of La Verne.  He and his wife, Lupe, are proud parents of three sons.  Drawing on his experiences as both an educator and a parent, he informs his leadership style, which emphasizes student achievement, organizational effectiveness, and valuing people, while incorporating empathy and common sense into decisions that impact students, staff, and families. 

Trustee Urteaga has extensive experience in public education, having served for the past 30 years as a teacher, dean of students, assistant principal, and, for 12 of those years, as a school principal at the middle and high school levels.  This background has given him a comprehensive understanding of effective school district operations.  He currently serves as the Executive Director of Human Resources for the Rialto Unified School District.  Trustee Urteaga’s leadership was recognized at the state and national levels, including being named the 2017 Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) “Principal of the Year” and the 2020 California League of Schools “Educator of the Year.” He has also served on the WUHSD Bond Oversight Committee and the CIF State Appeals Committee.

In addition to his educational leadership, Trustee Urteaga brings two decades of governance experience as a school board member.  He was fortunate to be elected to the East Whittier City School District Board five times from 2005 to 2026.  During his tenure in EWCSD, he guided initiatives that promoted inclusive learning environments, high academic standards, enhanced school facilities, strong community partnerships, and improved outcomes for diverse student populations.  As a result, the district earned multiple National Blue Ribbon Schools, California Distinguished Schools, Gold Ribbon Schools, and CSBA Golden Bell recognitions.

Trustee Urteaga is a servant leader who values equity and diversity.  He is committed to ensuring that all students have access to high-quality educational opportunities and district resources, particularly for students in special education and English learner populations.  Looking ahead, Trustee Urteaga remains focused on strengthening the Whittier Union High School District, expanding opportunities for employees and our future generations, while leaving a lasting legacy of educational excellence and community impact.