OUSD Names New Safety Leader to Support Joyful, Safe Schools

Creating Joyful and Safe Schools is one of the primary goals of Oakland Unified School District’s strategic plan. In support of that mission, OUSD has taken another important step by hiring a new Executive Director of Safety, a role established for the first time in the District's history. Nelson Alegria, a longtime leader in school safety and emergency services, will begin in this role on Tuesday, July 29.

Alegria brings more than a decade of experience fostering safe, healthy, and responsive learning environments. Most recently, he served as School Safety & Emergency Services Manager at the Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE), where he led countywide emergency preparedness and response efforts, developed comprehensive safety plans, and supported student behavioral threat assessments and crisis interventions across school sites. He also played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to coordinate public health efforts, including supply distribution and information sharing with schools throughout Alameda County.

Prior to his time at ACOE, Alegria worked in Pittsburg Unified School District as Supervisor of School Safety & Emergency Preparedness, where he oversaw districtwide safety operations, staff training, and emergency planning across multiple campuses. Earlier in his career, he supported safety and emergency readiness at Simi Valley Unified School District, with a focus on training, compliance, and preparedness initiatives.

"What excites me most about this opportunity is OUSD's commitment to reimagining school safety through the lens of racial justice," said Alegria. "I believe school safety must always put students first. Throughout my career, I"ve aligned safety strategies with behavioral health, student services, and restorative practices to ensure inclusive, trauma-informed, and equitable approaches to creating a positive school climate."

"I am pleased to welcome Nelson Alegria to the OUSD family and know that our schools, students, and staff will benefit greatly from his expertise," said Interim Superintendent Dr. Denise Saddler. "We know it's hard to experience joy if you're worried about your safety. This new Executive Director of Safety role, and Mr. Alegria's leadership, are vital to our ongoing efforts to build strong, safe, and joyful schools, grounded in our Board-adopted George Floyd Resolution, and to prepare us well for the 2025-26 school year."

Alegria holds a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, East Bay. He also carries advanced certifications in threat assessment, crisis management, and incident command systems. His approach centers on collaboration, prevention, and building systems that prioritize the well-being and equitable support of students and staff.