Roberto Rodriguez
Hi, I’m Roberto Rodriguez — lifelong educator, community advocate, and proud Trustee on the Palomar College Governing Board since 2020.
For over three decades, I taught High School Social Science, mostly in AP Government and Economics, in the Sweetwater Union High School District. I’ve always believed that public education is one of the most sacred promises we make to each generation — a belief shaped by my own journey as the son of immigrants and the first in my family to attend college.
My grandfather was my first teacher. He instilled in me a deep love of learning and a commitment to service. That legacy fueled not only my teaching career, but also my leadership in public education and labor advocacy. I served as president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary of the Sweetwater Education Association (SEA), representing over 1,800 educators. Under my leadership, SEA became a member of the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, which later recognized us as Union of the Year for our role in transforming our local school board.
Statewide, I served as a member of the California Teachers Association (CTA) State Council and on its Board of Directors, representing educators across San Diego and Imperial Counties. I also served as vice chair of CTA’s Political Involvement Committee, advocating for educators and students at the local, state, and national levels.
Today, I continue that work as a Trustee at Palomar College — an institution that represents everything I value in public education. Community colleges are often the gateway to opportunity, offering affordable pathways to four-year universities, workforce training, artistic expression, and personal growth. Palomar is also a Hispanic-Serving Institution and plays a critical role in ensuring equity and access for the diverse communities of North County San Diego.
I’m deeply committed to making sure Palomar remains a place where all students feel seen, supported, and empowered — regardless of background or circumstance. That includes championing DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) initiatives, strengthening Career Technical Education, and ensuring students can access the classes and support services they need to thrive.
I earned both my bachelor’s degree in International Relations/Spanish and my master’s in International Relations from the University of San Diego, and pursued doctoral studies in Political Science at UC Santa Barbara. I’ve lived in Vista for nearly 20 years, and I remain committed to lifting up our community through service, advocacy, and education.
Few careers are more rewarding than education — and few responsibilities more urgent than protecting its promise for future generations.