During a ceremony held on Thursday, Dec. 11, Maycanitza Pérez, Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services at Penfield Central School District, was honored with a S.T.A.R. Award, given by Latinas Unidas.

A non-profit, all-volunteer organization, Latinas Unidas promotes unity, cultural identity and the presence of the Latina woman in the community. Pérez was honored for significantly elevating the mission of Latinas Unidas and strengthening ties within the greater Rochester region.

In an announcement about the award, Latinas Unidas leaders noted that Pérez’s honor was especially meaningful, as it marks the first-ever special edition award selected by the Board of Directors.

The announcement went on to say that through her work, Pérez has “consistently uplifted the next generation by exposing young people to cultural heritage, leadership, and opportunities that reflect who we are as a community” and praised her “steady support of Latinas Unidas over the years, and her commitment to ensuring youth feel seen and connected to their identity.”

“For many years, I have proudly served as an hermana ‘sister’ member of Latinas Unidas, supporting their events and uplifting their mission to empower and unite Latinas in our community,” said Pérez . “I am deeply honored to receive the STAR Award, which reflects the values that have guided my 25-year journey as an educator. My greatest passion has always been mentoring and inspiring young people to see themselves as capable of achieving their dreams and ensuring they have the support to succeed.”

Pérez added that the recognition is especially meaningful because she has consistently brought youth to the awards luncheon, hoping to expose them to opportunities and inspire them to make an impact in their own communities.

“My parents instilled in me the importance of preserving my Spanish language, heritage, and culture, values I have carried forward in my work and in my role as a sister and mentor,” she explained.

At Penfield, Pérez has brought a spirit of collaboration and care that reflects the District’s core values: a student-centered approach, equity, and excellence in service. Her daily contributions make a real and lasting impact, fostering an environment of belonging, encouragement, and growth. Through her leadership, students experience school positively, and the fabric of the District community is strengthened.

She is also focused on building strong relationships with families and the broader community, creating opportunities that support students’ educational journeys. This year, she hosted the 3rd Annual Community Partnership Roundtable, engaging local partners in mentoring high school students. Pérez also serves as co-advisor to the Latino Student Union at Penfield high School and works closely with principals and administrators to ensure students receive the support they need to thrive. In addition, she champions cultural awareness by organizing and supporting events that celebrate diversity and promote inclusion, ensuring that every student feels seen, valued, and respected.

Prior to joining Penfield, Pérez served in several leadership roles with the Rochester City School District (RCSD), most recently as vice principal at the East Educational Partnership Organization. Before transition to administration, she spent five years as a Spanish teacher in RCSD.

Pérez holds an administrative certification, master’s degree in education with a concentration in secondary education and Spanish, and bachelor’s degree in Spanish—all from the University of Rochester.