2026 CASE Conference

Liz DeVargas-Almeida
Early Literacy Coordinator
Pajaro Valley Unified School District


Dr. Liz DeVargas Almeida is a literacy advocate with more than 20 years of experience in education, dedicated to creating environments where every student has voice and choice, starting with the foundation of literacy. She currently serves as Early Literacy Coordinator for Pajaro Valley Unified School District in Watsonville, California, where she develops multi-year literacy plans grounded in data, standards, and current research. Her work spans site- and district-wide strategy, professional learning centered on equity, and focusing on building intentional early literacy practices which she finds most rewarding. Previously, Liz spent five years as District Elementary Academic Coach for Gilroy Unified School District, guiding teachers in literacy and English Language Development and leading Science of Reading professional development as the district's LETRS Course Manager. Her career began in Title 1 elementary classrooms teaching Kindergarten- fifth grade where she developed STEAM curriculum, launched after-school interventions, and created community partnerships pairing food distributions with book giveaways for families in need. Dr. DeVargas-Almeida holds an EdD from Northcentral University, an MS and Administrative Services Credential from National University/SCCOE, a Literacy Certification from UCSD extension, and a BA in Psychology from Sonoma State University. She is passionate about supporting diverse learners, particularly English language learners, and believes literacy is the key to student empowerment.

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