Dr. Guss is a 35-year veteran educator with a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership. She served as a classroom teacher for 10 years, including two years as a teacher in a bilingual program in South Central Los Angeles. She has also served as a college professor, mentor teacher for new teachers, and a master teacher for teacher candidates completing their student teaching experience. She continues to be a strong advocate for the teaching profession.

Dr. Guss has been an administrator here in Monterey County for 25 years serving as an assistant principal, principal, director of curriculum and instruction, associate superintendent of educational services and as district superintendent. Dr. Guss also served as the Deputy Superintendent of the Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) for six years prior to becoming County Superintendent. During her tenure she has received numerous awards for her service in education and her service to the community. Recently, Dr. Guss was awarded as the Ruth Vreeland Public Official of the Year.

Dr. Guss serves as a Core Convener for the Bright Futures Cradle to Career Initiative, is a member and current Past Chair of the Monterey County Children’s Council, and is a member of the Hartnell College Bond Oversight Committee. She was also appointed to serve on the Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) Board beginning in January 2021.