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Governmental Relations

 

Ronald Gonzalez PortraitRonald Gonzales-Lawrence

Director, Governmental Relations

Ronald Gonzales-Lawrence is the Director of Governmental Relations for Pomona Unified School District, bringing more than 20 years of experience in government, education, and politics.

Ronald began his career in public service as an intern for State Senator Martha M. Escutia before becoming one of the youngest Field Representatives in California while working for Assemblymember Rudy Bermudez. He went on to serve in the State Legislature for over a decade, holding senior roles with Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon and later serving as District Director and Chief of Staff to Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez, who represented Pomona and surrounding communities.

In 2007, Ronald made history as the youngest person—and the first of African American descent—elected to the Little Lake City School District Board of Education. During his tenure, he championed transparency, advanced the district’s use of educational technology, preserved a balanced budget during fiscal challenges, and launched a wellness program for students and staff. He also spearheaded the creation of the Little Lake Education Advancement Foundation to bring private funding into classrooms. After concluding his term in 2011, he continued his service as the founding Chair of the Measure LL Bond Oversight Committee.

His commitment to education and equity extended beyond elected office. He was appointed by Assembly Speaker John Pérez to the California Advisory Commission on Special Education and served on the Board of Directors for Plaza de la Raza Child Development Services, Inc., a $20 million nonprofit serving over 20 early childhood education centers in Southeast Los Angeles County. Today, Ronald continues to serve as a member of the Los Angeles County Water Appeals Board, appointed by Supervisor Hilda Solis, and sits on the Board of Directors of the SELA Arts Foundation.

As an advocate and policymaker, Ronald has played a key role in shaping legislation and securing more than $30 million in state funding for community projects. At Pomona Unified, he serves as the chief advocate for students and families in Pomona and Diamond Bar. He led the district’s successful campaign for Measure UU, a $385 million facilities bond, and championed amendments to protect PUSD in the reauthorization of the District of Choice Bill (SB 897, Newman). He has also overseen the district’s 7-11 Committee and Bond Oversight Committee.

Ronald studied Political Science and Child Development at Rio Hondo College before transferring to Mount St. Mary’s College, where he pursued Liberal Arts and Religious Studies. He also studied Public Administration from the University of La Verne.

Outside of his professional work, Ronald is a devoted dog dad to his French Bulldogs, Kyva and Xennia, and an avid foodie always on the hunt for new culinary recommendations.

Contact Information:
Office of the Superintendent, Governmental Relations
Education Center
800 South Garey Avenue
Pomona, CA 91767
Office: (909) 397-4800 x.23885
Email: [email protected]