Leadership Team
Roberta Zarea,
Superintendent
Before joining the District in 2019, Roberta Zarea served as a teacher, curriculum coordinator, principal, and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services in the Saratoga Elementary School District. She was named the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Superintendent of the Year in 2021-2022.
Ms. Zarea is passionate about public education and finds joy in seeing students grow and develop into confident, self-sufficient learners who contribute to improving the world. She values partnerships with families and collaboration with teachers and staff. She finds PVSD particularly special as a community of good-hearted adults who genuinely care about children and generously support students with their time and resources. “It takes a Valley.”
Ms. Zarea actively supports Best Buddies International, a non-profit organization comprised of volunteers that create opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She was named a Best Buddies “Champion of the Year” for the second year in a row.
When she’s not working, she likes to spend time with her family hiking and backpacking and taking walks with her two dogs. She also loves to read and travel.
Ms. Zarea is passionate about public education and finds joy in seeing students grow and develop into confident, self-sufficient learners who contribute to improving the world. She values partnerships with families and collaboration with teachers and staff. She finds PVSD particularly special as a community of good-hearted adults who genuinely care about children and generously support students with their time and resources. “It takes a Valley.”
Ms. Zarea actively supports Best Buddies International, a non-profit organization comprised of volunteers that create opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She was named a Best Buddies “Champion of the Year” for the second year in a row.
When she’s not working, she likes to spend time with her family hiking and backpacking and taking walks with her two dogs. She also loves to read and travel.
Connie Ngo,
Chief Business Official
Connie joined the District as Chief Business Official in 2018, having worked in public school finance in the Bay Area since 2002. Before this, as a certified public accountant, she audited financial statements and internal controls for organizations. She enjoys her role in the District because her work is hands-on and involves her directly in many different aspects of school operations.
When she is not working, Connie enjoys cooking new recipes for her family – and is always gratified when her family enjoys the meals she makes for them! She also loves outdoor camping trips and hiking the local trails.
Dr. Minoo Shah,
Director of Educational Services & Wellness
Dr. Shah has worked in education for over 25 years. Her career began in India. She moved to the United States to pursue her Masters and Ph.D. Before joining PVSD in 2014, Minoo served at the San Francisco Unified School District for 16 years.
She finds working with students incredibly uplifting and gratifying, and loves putting a smile on a student’s face when interacting directly with them.
When she is not working, Dr. Shah likes spending time with family and friends -- cooking, eating, and enjoying a movie together. She also loves to read fiction!
Kristen Shima,
Principal, Corte Madera School
Ms. Shima has been part of the Corte Madera staff for the past 17 years. As a hands-on Principal, she enjoys working directly with students and being involved in their learning and school activities. Her students make her happy, and keep her young!
When she’s not working, she is busy raising two teenagers, going to their sporting events, and volunteering in the community. She also enjoys traveling with family and friends.
When she’s not working, she is busy raising two teenagers, going to their sporting events, and volunteering in the community. She also enjoys traveling with family and friends.
Lynette Hovland,
Principal, Ormondale School
Ms. Hovland has been in education in San Mateo County for 36 years, the past seven years with PVSD. Her experience includes both elementary and middle school teaching, and as Principal. Ms. Hovland has also served as Special Education Director at a charter school, and at the district level in curriculum and accountability. Being an elementary school principal is her favorite!
Ms. Hovland loves working with students and enjoys their enthusiasm for learning and their sense of wonder and fun.
When she's not working, Ms. Hovland enjoys spending time with her family. She also loves to go antiquing and refinish and refurbish old furniture.
Karrie Amsler,
Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator
Ms. Amsler became PVSD's Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator in the Fall 2023. Previously she was a school site Principal in Belmont-Redwood Shores and an Assistant Director at a local K-8 charter school. At the start of her career she was a 5th and 6th grade English Language Arts Teacher and now, several years later, she still enjoys reading and discussing books of all kinds with children and adults alike.
When not working Ms. Amsler can be found on the sidelines of soccer games for her teenage daughters or taking long walks in San Mateo. She also like to complete one thousand piece puzzles while listening to podcasts!
Jeff Miller,
Facilities and Maintenance Coordinator
With over 35 years of experience in the construction, industry, Mr. Miller brings a wealth of knowledge, practical expertise, and leadership to PVSD. Since joining the District in February 2025, he has played a key role in maintaining and improving the campus environment to ensure a safe, functional, and welcoming space for students, staff, and visitors.
Prior to joining PVSD Mr. Miller led numerous commercial and residential construction projects. His deep understanding of building systems and construction allows for proactive facility management and cost-effective solutions.
When not working with his tools, Mr. Miller loves cooking, music, hiking and spending time with his 3 daughters and his grandchildren.
Mauricio Romero,
Technology Coordinator
Mauricio joins PVSD this year as the district's new Technology Coordinator. He brings a decade of experience to the role, having previously served as the Technology Director for Bullis Charter School in Los Altos.
In his previous position, Mauricio was responsible for supporting staff and students with classroom technology, ensuring student data privacy, and overseeing all technology infrastructure. He is committed to leveraging technology to create an innovative and effective learning environment for all students. Mauricio is focused on supporting PVSD’s strategic goals and ensuring that students and staff are equipped with the tools they need for success. He is excited to become a part of the PVSD community.
Outside of work, Mauricio’s passion for technology continues as he serves as the volunteer Multimedia Director at his church, managing both in-person A/V and streaming operations as well as communications. In his free time, Mauricio also enjoys working on his car, playing soccer, fishing, and watching the local sports teams.