Norma Berrellez is a lifelong educator, community advocate, and proud Ward 6 resident running for Riverside City Council.
For more than 40 years, Norma has dedicated her life to serving the families, students, and neighborhoods of Riverside. Her journey in public service began in the classroom as a Spanish teacher, where she discovered her passion for helping young people succeed. She went on to serve as a high school administrator before being elected to the Alvord Unified School District Board of Trustees, where she continues to champion equity, opportunity, and student success.
Throughout her career, Norma has mentored countless educators—many of whom have gone on to become principals and superintendents—and has been a tireless advocate for ensuring every student has access to high-quality education and the support they need to thrive.
Beyond the classroom, Norma has served on the City of Riverside's Community Police Review Commission, where she worked to strengthen trust, transparency, and accountability between law enforcement and the community. Her approach to public service has always been grounded in dignity, fairness, and thoughtful leadership.
Norma's commitment to service extends into her faith and volunteer work. She serves as a minister and sacristan at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, where she supports families in need, tutors students, and mentors clergy in the Spanish language. She also volunteers with community organizations that uplift youth and seniors across Ward 6.
Norma and her family have called Ward 6 home for more than four decades. She knows the community's challenges, and she knows its strengths. She is running for City Council to bring experienced, independent, and accountable leadership to the neighborhoods she has served her entire life.