Board of Directors
Sara Ontiveros
Board President
Sara Ontiveros is a dedicated educator, school counselor, and student advocate with over 20 years of experience in education. Her professional background spans general and special education, school counseling, student mental health, and educational leadership. In addition to her work in K–12 education, she serves in higher education teaching graduate students and mentoring future educators as they prepare to enter the profession. These experiences provide her with a broad perspective on the needs of students, families, educators, and school communities across the educational continuum.
Mrs. Ontiveros holds a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction and multiple California credentials in teaching, special education, and school counseling. Throughout her career, she has been committed to supporting the whole child, removing barriers to student success, and creating inclusive educational environments where all students have access to meaningful opportunities.
As a school board member, Mrs. Ontiveros brings an educator’s perspective to governance and is committed to thoughtful decision-making, responsible stewardship, and collaboration with students, families, educators, and community partners. She believes strong schools are built through relationships, high expectations, and a shared commitment to ensuring every student feels supported, valued, and prepared for their future.
Navid McCarthy
Secretary/Treasurer
Navid joined Excelsior Charter Schools in 2001 as a Math teacher and during her career at Excelsior held the positions of lead mentor, Curriculum Coordinator, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Deputy Superintendent. She retired from Excelsior in 2017.
Navid holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering from University of Iowa, a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership. She also holds a California clear teaching credential in math and a supplementary credential in physical science in addition to a clear leadership credential.
She has lived in the High Desert since 1990.
Charity Reyes
Board Member
Charity Reyes is a dedicated entrepreneur and community advocate with deep roots in Adelanto and over a decade of residency in the High Desert. As a serial entrepreneur, she has developed strong relationships within the financial literacy sector and currently operates a local tax preparation company.
Mrs. Reyes is a strong advocate for vocational education and youth empowerment. Through her nonprofit organization, The Poly Plug, she has focused on creating independent community pathways that connect individuals to opportunities and purpose while supporting the well-being of youth in the Adelanto community. Her compassionate outlook allows her to connect with students whose learning journeys may differ from traditional paths. As a lifelong learner, Charity remains committed to promoting growth, opportunity, and excellence within her community.
Valerie Ruiz
Board Member
Valerie Ruiz is a dedicated ECS Board Member and local business leader in Hesperia, California. A strong advocate for education and vocational pathways, Valerie partners with schools and community programs to expand opportunities for students. Her commitment to community service, youth development, and strengthening educational access drives her work both on the ECS Board and throughout the High Desert. Valerie has been a resident since 2010, Mrs. Ruiz, her husband and their five boys are extremely blessed to call the High Desert home. She always feels privileged to be able to grow, thrive and make roots in this community she loves.
Jennifer Little
Parent Board Member
Jennifer Little is a lifelong High Desert resident and a proud parent of five children, ages 7 to 17—two of whom currently attend Excelsior. Deeply committed to supporting student success, Jennifer serves on the Excelsior Board of Directors as Parent Board Member, where she advocates for strong school-family partnerships and enrichments that elevate the student experience. Jennifer is a passionate supporter of Excelsior’s Arts Program and believes in the importance of creative opportunities that help students grow, express themselves, and discover their talents. Her dedication to her family, community, and Excelsior reflects her long-standing commitment to ensuring that all students have access to diverse pathways that inspire learning and success