Hector Bustos is a proud product of the Santa Ana Unified School District, having attended Taft Elementary, McFadden Intermediate, and graduating from Segerstrom High School in 2017. Born and raised in Area 5, Mr. Bustos now represents the very community that shaped him. Less than a decade after his own high school graduation, he made history as the youngest person ever elected to the Santa Ana School Board and the first openly out LGBTQ+ elected official in the city's history. His journey from student to leader in the district is a testament to his deep commitment to the well-being and success of all students.
 
As a first-generation college graduate, Mr. Bustos earned a Bachelor's degree in Politics and a minor in Public Service and Community Engagement from the University of San Francisco. Returning to Santa Ana, he was driven by a passion to make a lasting impact on the youth of his hometown. Mr. Bustos has been organizing with Santa Ana youth since he was in high school, fighting for greater investments in youth programs and services. Through his advocacy, Santa Ana now boasts free public transportation for all youth ages 18 and under, increased investments in mental health services, a robust focus on the arts, and the inclusion of LGBTQ historical figures and authors in curriculum. 
 
Raised by a single mother who immigrated from Jalisco, Mexico, Mr. Bustos understands firsthand the challenges faced by monolingual immigrant families. He has dedicated himself to breaking down barriers and ensuring that all families, regardless of language or background, feel connected and supported by their schools. His lived experience fuels his dedication to making sure every student, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
 
As a School Board Member, Mr. Bustos is focused on creating safe and inclusive schools, expanding mental health services, empowering student and parent voices, and fostering a transparent budget process. He believes that when our schools thrive, our entire community benefits, and he is committed to building a school district that supports the success and well-being of every student.