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From work-study to career success
Kimberly Arellano '23 recognized with employee award from Davis Joint Unified School District
- by Brieann Howard
- February 20, 2026
Quick Summary
- Alum Kimberly Arellano puts her passion for education in practice, from seeds planted in work-study experience through UC Davis.
Kimberly Arellano '23 currently serves as an academic center supervisor at a secondary site within Davis Joint Unified School District, overseeing tutoring services, the dual enrollment program, and overall supporting multilingual learners and students farthest from academic opportunity.
As a UC Davis undergraduate student, Arellano began her studies in STEM programs, but a work-study job as a tutor within Davis Joint Unified School District sparked her passion for education, and she ultimately earned a Bachelor of Arts in Chicana/o studies and a minor in human development.
Fast forward to 2025: Arellano has been named the Davis Joint Unified School District Classified School Employee of the Year, recognized for her exemplary work performance, leadership, commitment, and school and community involvement.
In nominating Arellano for the honor, a colleague notes:
"[Kimberly] is a fierce advocate for student success and ensuring that every student's needs are met. She is an active partner in collaboration with staff, parents, and students, working to ensure that all learners have equitable access to opportunities and are fully engaged in their learning—not only in the present but also equipped with the skills needed for life. Her commitment to student growth is evident in her dedication to creating inclusive, supportive environments where every student can thrive both academically and personally."
Get to know Kimberly Arellano
What initially drew you to your area of study or career interest?
I started as an aerospace science and engineering major, really loving STEM and potentially wanting to be a teacher, but also not too sure what path to take. I had volunteered at a local community center during my senior year of high school and liked education.
At UC Davis, I applied to be a work-study tutor at an academic center at a secondary site within the Davis Joint Unified School District, and I thankfully got the job! I was tutoring many of our multilingual learner students in math, and I absolutely loved it. I mainly enjoyed having the opportunity to work with our Latinx community and students who came from historically disadvantaged communities. I was a multilingual learner in elementary school, and Spanish was my first language. I have always been passionate about social justice, amplifying community voices, and analyzing ways to uplift communities. My aerospace major was not going so well, and it was not calling me, so I took a leap of faith and decided to major in Chicanx Studies.
Were there any classes, projects, mentors, or experiences during school that influenced your career direction?
Introduction to Chicana/o studies with Professor Carlos Jackson was influential, and Mayra Meza-Chavez, my supervisor in my work-study job, became a mentor. She opened my eyes regarding what I could do in my line of work. We have very similar interests, but she was also super kind, and I saw the difference she was making, and I wanted to do the same.
What was your first role related to your current career path?
I first volunteered as a tutor at the community center back home in high school, and I've worked in summer camps with Galileo, and the work-study tutoring job in Davis.
How did you transition from your education into that career role?
My mentor, Mayra, took on a new hybrid role and recommended me for the now-open position. At first, I was a substitute supervisor, and then a supervisor.
What skills or lessons did you gain early on that became foundational?
I've learned community-centered practices that are culturally responsive to ensure resources, programs, and services are accessible and inclusive, along with a critical understanding of educational inequities. I also gained skills in relationship and trust building, how to prioritize relationships through storytelling, and listening to families and students.
What key roles or positions helped shape your professional growth?
Definitely my tutoring role at the academic center!! And serving as assistant camp director for Galileo one summer allowed me to practice more leadership skills and learn how to fully run programs.
Were there any pivotal moments, promotions, or changes in direction?
I am truly grateful to have essentially been promoted from a tutor to the supervisor who oversees the school's tutoring program.
How did your responsibilities evolve over time?
I now have to use my experience as a tutor to lead an effective tutoring team of 19 every year. My responsibilities now include overseeing all programs, not just being a tutor in the classroom. I get more of the outside perspective, empowering others and connecting with more students on a broader scale. This means my work is a lot more family-focused, not just student-focused.
What technical, interpersonal, or leadership skills have been most important in your progression?
Community-based leadership and relationship building with parents, students, tutors, and teachers. Making sure I am fostering a safe space, listening to their needs, and adding or modifying programs to support their needs.
How did you develop these skills (on-the-job experience, training, mentoring, etc.)?
Mayra has been a huge mentor. On-the-job experience, learning as I grow, researching strategies, and professional development have also contributed. My upbringing, the values instilled in me, and my education have provided me with the tools I need to be successful.
What motivates you in your current role?
I am motivated to make a difference and help build bridges in school communities, helping a student holistically as much as possible, so they are able to envision themselves in academic opportunities and post-graduation plans.
Looking back, what has been the most meaningful part of your journey?
Graduation day is such an emotional, rewarding day, and for those not graduating, knowing that there may be some sort of plan, that they have grown so much as a person, is really meaningful.
What continues to inspire your work today?
Student joy and student growth.
What does receiving this specific award mean to you personally and professionally?
I think a lot of times in education, we give so much and care so much, and at times it may be difficult to keep going and keep striving, but I hope that some of this recognition will influence others to keep going and hold onto that “why” and purpose.
This award is especially meaningful to me because it reflects everyone who has supported and shaped me. My mom, dad, two sisters, fiancé, family, friends, my team at the school, and everyone cheering me on all hold a piece of this award, and that makes it even more motivating to make a difference.
How does this honor change your perspective on your career or future goals?
I just feel empowered to keep working and celebrate the small and big wins. The most important thing is to be passionate about your work; passion is contagious, and your work will radiate.
For more information on work-study opportunities, both on and off-campus, visit Work-Study for Undergraduate Students, or reach out via email at workstudy@ucdavis.edu.