Velia V. Soto
Oxnard,USA
Summary
Dynamic education leader and disability advocate with over 20 years of experience dedicated to advancing educational equity, youth leadership, and inclusion across California. Expertise in translating complex legal and policy frameworks into accessible guidance for educators, families, and community partners fosters a collaborative environment that empowers marginalized populations. Proven track record of working with systems-impacted youth, including students with disabilities and foster youth, drives impactful advocacy and community-informed systems change. Juris Doctor equipped with a unique blend of cross-sector collaboration skills and policy insight, committed to bridging education and community leadership to expand opportunities for all youth.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Teacher, Mild/Moderate/Severe Disabilities
Oxnard Union High School District
Oxnard, CA
01.2004 - Current
- Facilitated holistic support for students through academic, social, emotional, and vocational counseling.
- Created comprehensive curriculum materials and lesson structures in accordance with California educational standards.
- Facilitated IEP team meetings and collaborated with stakeholders to assess and enhance student progress through data analysis.
- Achieved a harmonious classroom environment through proactive management techniques. Cultivated strong partnerships with parents and service providers to optimize student support and success.
- Facilitated work direction and mentorship for paraeducators, ensuring alignment with educational goals and standards.
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans that aligned with curriculum standards.
- Fostered a positive learning environment to support student growth and development.
- Implemented adaptive teaching strategies to enhance student engagement and comprehension.
- Developed individualized education plans tailored to student needs and learning goals.
Teacher, Special Day Class
Laguna Middle School
San Luis Obispo, CA
01.2002 - 01.2003
- Created and applied comprehensive behavior modification systems tailored to address the needs of students experiencing significant emotional challenges.
- Led the assessment of individual needs to create actionable goals. Oversaw the design and implementation of customized programs for each student. Fostered an environment conducive to achieving educational objectives.
- Coordinated the organization and creation of learning centers, focusing on diverse educational resources and activities.
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding and retention.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment promoting respect, collaboration, and active participation among students.
Education
Career Technical Education Teaching Credentials - Public Service/Legal Practices Credential, Education/Child Development/Family Services Credential, Agriculture and Natural Resources Credential
California Commission On Teacher Credentialing (CTC)
Sacramento, CA01.2025
J.D. - Law
Ventura College of Law
Ventura, CA01.2012
Master of Arts - Special Education
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo, CA01.2003
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies (Minor in Speech Communication)
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo, CA01.2001
Associate of Arts - Liberal Studies
Oxnard College
Oxnard, CA01.1999
Skills
- Facilitation of youth leadership programs
- Educational Equity & Disability Advocacy
- Policy Analysis & Legal Research
- Community-Informed Systems Change
- Cross-Sector Partnership Development
- Program Facilitation & Public Speaking
- Special Education Policy & Compliance
- Experienced with Microsoft Office applications
- Skilled in utilizing Google Workspace applications
- Skilled in Zoom communication
Timeline
Teacher, Mild/Moderate/Severe Disabilities
Oxnard Union High School District
01.2004 - Current
Teacher, Special Day Class
Laguna Middle School
01.2002 - 01.2003
Master of Arts - Special Education
California Polytechnic State University
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies (Minor in Speech Communication)
California Polytechnic State University
Associate of Arts - Liberal Studies
Oxnard College
Career Technical Education Teaching Credentials - Public Service/Legal Practices Credential, Education/Child Development/Family Services Credential, Agriculture and Natural Resources Credential
California Commission On Teacher Credentialing (CTC)
J.D. - Law
Ventura College of Law
Leadership & Policy Engagement
Assessment Review Panel Member | California Department of Education, Sacramento County office of Education | 2007–Present
- Contribute to development and review of statewide assessments (CASPP, CAA, CAL-ALT) for students with disabilities.
Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) Committee Member | Ventura County, CA | 2005–Present
- Advise on transition services, instructional strategies, behavioral supports, and student advocacy initiatives.
Mentor Teacher | Teacher Induction Program, Ventura County Office of Education | 2010–Present
- Coach and mentor new teachers, providing classroom observation, reflection, and professional feedback.
Special Education Advisory Committee Member | Office of Administrative Hearings, Sacramento / Van Nuys, CA | 2016–2018
- Provided recommendations to improve dispute resolution processes related to special education law and policy.
Community Leadership & Public Service
- Board Member | Ventura County Indian Education Consortium
Support culturally responsive education and Indigenous youth leadership initiatives across Ventura County. - Board Member | Sacred Indigenous Preservation
Protect Indigenous cultural knowledge, promote environmental stewardship, and support youth leadership programs. - Cultural Arts Commissioner | City of Oxnard, CA
Serve on a municipal commission supporting arts, culture, and community engagement programs. - Board Member | Ventura County Autism Society
Advise on programs, advocacy, and inclusion initiatives for neurodivergent youth and families.
Recognition
El Concilio Latino Leadership Award | 2025
- Recognized for outstanding leadership, advocacy, and commitment to advancing Latino communities and youth leadership initiatives.
Distinguished Teacher | TEACH California Program – California Department of Education | 2008
- Nominated by students and parents for excellence in teaching and advocacy.