Dawnnesha Lasuncet joined Clackamas ESD in early March as equity and inclusion coordinator. In this new role, she will provide professional development and instructional coaching for administrators and educators across Clackamas County. Prior to joining the ESD, she led equity work across the state of Oregon as an education equity specialist with the Oregon Department of Education.

“As the new equity and inclusion coordinator, I am excited to be a part of Clackamas ESD’s ongoing commitment to and work with students, families and communities,” Dawnnesha said. “My hope is to work collaboratively with CESD staff, partner districts and schools in the ways of professional learning, critical dialogue and systems analysis in order to interrupt inequities and barriers to student wellness and academic success.”

Dawnnesha began her career as an elementary school teacher in Los Angeles. She has worked extensively with students and families through non-profit organizations and grassroots communities that are dedicated to improving the wellness of historically underserved populations, and addressing educational inequities.

“My greatest achievement will be to continue my purpose as an instrument of change so that students in Clackamas County, and the staff who support them, can thrive, heal, grow and become the best versions of themselves,” Dawnnesha said. “The world needs them, and us.”