My family has proudly called Torrance home since 1998. This community is where we built our lives, raised our three children, and created lasting memories. Our children attended Riviera Elementary School, Richardson Middle School, and South High School, and they are proud graduates of the Torrance Unified School District.
As both an educator and a TUSD parent, I have experienced our schools from multiple perspectives and understand the profound impact strong public schools have on students, families, and the broader community.
I came to America as a teenager with hope, curiosity, and a belief that opportunities were possible. My parents worked tirelessly to provide our family with the best they could, and their sacrifices taught me the values of perseverance, gratitude, and service.
Education became the key that opened doors for me. It shaped my life, expanded my opportunities, and inspired me to dedicate my career to helping others discover their own potential.
For 38 years, I have had the privilege of serving students, educators, and families through public education in the Los Angeles Unified School District. My journey began in the classroom and grew into opportunities to serve in multiple leadership roles.
Each role gave me a deeper appreciation for the many individuals who contribute to a thriving school community, from students and families to teachers, staff, and school leaders. Through every chapter of my career, I have been guided by the belief that student success is built through strong relationships, collaboration, thoughtful leadership, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Started in the classroom right out of UCLA. Taught kindergarten through fourth grade, including 11 years at Lomita Math and Science Magnet.
Led demonstration lessons and professional development for teachers, kindergarten through fifth grade.
Oversaw special and general education programs.
Led 15th Street Elementary to the California Gold Ribbon School Award and the Title I Academic Achievement Award.
School Support Administrator.
Oversaw 16 schools serving approximately 7,000 students across elementary, middle, high school, and continuation programs.
I am running for the Torrance Unified School District Board of Education because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, every educator deserves support and respect, and every family deserves a trusted partnership with their schools.
After raising our three children in Torrance and watching them grow through the Torrance Unified School District, I have been reflecting on how I can continue giving back to the community that has given so much to my family. Public education has been my life’s work for nearly four decades. Now, I hope to bring my experience as an educator, school leader, parent, and community member to serve Torrance Unified in a new capacity, as a Board Trustee.
Excellence for the Next Generation is possible when we work together. By putting our students first, empowering our educators, strengthening family and community partnerships, we can build on Torrance Unified’s strengths and create even greater opportunities for every student.
Jennifer Mak brings 38 years of experience in public education, a deep understanding of Torrance Unified as both a parent and community member, and a proven record of collaborative leadership focused on student success.
Build trust through relationships, open communication, active listening, and mutual respect.
Foster a culture of high expectations, curiosity, innovation, and continuous learning.
Strengthen schools through collaboration, thoughtful decision-making, and expanded opportunities for students.
These principles have guided Jennifer’s work throughout her career and continue to shape her commitment to serving Torrance Unified with integrity and a steadfast focus on student success.
As a school leader, Jennifer had the privilege of working with dedicated teams to achieve meaningful outcomes for students:
