Saddleback Valley Unified School District Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Saddleback Valley Unified School District has 4 executives leading key functions including educational strategy, financial management, labor relations, and board governance.

Committed to academic excellence, Saddleback Valley Unified School District fosters partnerships between schools, families, and the community to instill essential knowledge, skills, and values in every student.

Leadership Roles at Saddleback Valley Unified School District

  • Chief Financial Officer - Susan Cortum
  • Valley of the Moon Teacher Association President - Cheryl Coldiron
  • President - Pamela Klister
  • Superintendent - Crystal Turner
  • Susan Cortum - Chief Financial Officer

    Susan Cortum, the Chief Financial Officer at Saddleback Valley Unified School District, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the organization. Cortum architects complex financial models to support district-wide initiatives, ensuring that funding aligns with educational priorities and long-term sustainability goals. The Chief Financial Officer monitors revenue streams, including state allocations and local tax contributions, to maintain operational stability. By overseeing procurement processes and facility maintenance budgets, Cortum guarantees that resources reach classrooms effectively. This role requires constant collaboration with the Superintendent to balance fiscal responsibility with the need for modern instructional tools. Susan Cortum executes rigorous audits and financial reporting to maintain transparency with the community. Through prudent management of capital assets and operational expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation required for the district to deliver high-quality education across all regional campuses.

    Cheryl Coldiron - Valley of the Moon Teacher Association President

    Cheryl Coldiron, the Valley of the Moon Teacher Association President at Saddleback Valley Unified School District, represents the interests of educators while fostering a collaborative professional environment. Coldiron facilitates communication between teaching staff and district administration to ensure that classroom needs remain central to policy decisions. The Valley of the Moon Teacher Association President negotiates labor agreements and advocates for working conditions that support effective instruction and teacher retention. By organizing professional advocacy efforts, Coldiron strengthens the partnership between the faculty and the broader community. Cheryl Coldiron monitors the implementation of educational policies to ensure fairness and consistency for all staff members. This leadership role involves resolving workplace concerns and promoting initiatives that enhance the overall quality of the learning experience. Through active engagement with the district leadership, the Valley of the Moon Teacher Association President drives improvements in school culture and instructional support systems.

    Pamela Klister - President

    Pamela Klister, the President at Saddleback Valley Unified School District, leads the Board of Education in setting policy and providing governance for the entire district. Klister directs board meetings, ensuring that public discourse remains focused on student achievement and community values. The President oversees the evaluation of the Superintendent and monitors the progress of district-wide strategic plans. By facilitating communication between the community and the administration, Klister ensures that educational programs reflect the needs of local families. This leadership role involves approving annual budgets and major capital projects that shape the physical and academic future of the district. Pamela Klister maintains high standards of accountability and transparency in all governance activities. Through strategic oversight and policy development, the President drives the institutional direction, ensuring that the district remains a pillar of excellence within the California public education system.

    Crystal Turner - Superintendent

    Crystal Turner, the Superintendent at Saddleback Valley Unified School District, directs the overarching educational mission and operational standards across the entire district. Turner manages the implementation of curriculum frameworks while ensuring alignment with state mandates and local community expectations. By coordinating with the Board of Education, the Superintendent establishes long-term goals for student achievement and institutional growth. Crystal Turner oversees the professional development of faculty members to maintain high instructional quality throughout the region. This leadership role involves analyzing performance data to refine pedagogical approaches and improve learning outcomes for diverse student populations. Through consistent engagement with stakeholders, the Superintendent secures the resources necessary for classroom success. Ultimately, Turner drives the strategic vision that defines the academic environment, ensuring that every school site operates with efficiency and a clear focus on student development within the broader California educational landscape.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Saddleback Valley Unified School District Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Saddleback Valley Unified School District?
    Saddleback Valley Unified School District is led by Susan Cortum (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Cheryl Coldiron (Valley of the Moon Teacher Association President) and Pamela Klister (President).
    Who is part of Saddleback Valley Unified School District’s executive team?
    The executive team of Saddleback Valley Unified School District includes leaders such as Susan Cortum (Chief Financial Officer), Cheryl Coldiron (Valley of the Moon Teacher Association President), Pamela Klister (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Saddleback Valley Unified School District have?
    Saddleback Valley Unified School District has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Saddleback Valley Unified School District’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Saddleback Valley Unified School District includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Valley of the Moon Teacher Association President, President, Superintendent.