STORY BY SAM STEIN, PHOTO BY ARYA NASIKKAR

Long-time district employee Elvis Lopez was appointed to the role of director of fiscal services on Oct. 25 by the Mountain View–Los Altos Union High School District board.

Lopez, a U.S. Army veteran, has been working with the district for over 20 years and will be responsible for establishing new financial accounts needed by the county or state; the preparation of county, state, and federal budget reports; as well as other work regarding district finances with his new position. He formerly served as an accountant.

Lopez said he hopes to further improve the district in regards to the understanding of the “why” and “how” of budgeting.

“[I hope] to help my colleagues better understand how budgets are created and how we build around them,” Lopez said in an email. “The role of director of fiscal services is a lot of behind-the-scenes work, but I am hoping that by being out there with them face to face will bridge the gap between creating budgets and supporting the students we are all here to serve.”

Lopez has been embedded in the community for years. When he was deployed to Iraq in 2003 while working as a student conduct liaison with the district, Mountain View High School staff sent packages laden with books, candy, canned goods and other miscellaneous items to him. Upon returning home, he was greeted with open arms. 

This act, along with the care packages, strengthened his bond with the district community. 

“I have a strong understanding of the culture and the people who work here,” Lopez said. “I feel that I can use that as a jumping off point to take this position and run with it. I truly know how all aspects of the business department are run and can appreciate the work that goes into what we do.”

Lopez attributed his promotion to hard work and continued contribution. 

“I can’t even explain how this promotion feels,” said Lopez. “At times, I feel like it is a dream. I am super happy that I have this opportunity. It shows that if you work hard and give it your all, good things happen and that it does not go unnoticed. People around you see that you have potential, and appreciate your dedication.”

Tomoki Chien contributed to the reporting on this story.