Placer Union High School District outlines priorities for next superintendent search

Placer Union High School District (PUHSD) is gearing up for a significant leadership transition as the search for a new superintendent progresses. During the recent board meeting on April 8, 2025, key priorities for the incoming leader were outlined, emphasizing the need to close the achievement gap, support and retain high-quality staff, and strengthen community relationships.

The meeting highlighted findings from a recent survey that gathered input from various stakeholders, including certificated staff, classified staff, parents, and community members. The survey revealed a strong consensus on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, particularly among certificated staff. Meanwhile, classified staff expressed a focus on school safety and operational efficiencies, while parents advocated for innovative leadership and openness to external candidates.

The board acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly in addressing equity gaps in student achievement and adapting to technological changes. The survey results serve as a roadmap for the new superintendent, who is expected to be a visionary leader committed to inclusive excellence and strategic growth.

Despite the valuable insights gained, there was some disappointment regarding the survey's participation rate, with only a fraction of the district's population contributing. Board members expressed a desire for broader community engagement to ensure diverse perspectives are represented in the decision-making process.

As the application period for the superintendent position closes next week, the board is preparing for the next steps, including candidate reviews and interviews. The process will involve narrowing down applicants to six finalists for further consideration, with meetings scheduled to facilitate this selection.

The PUHSD board remains focused on finding a leader who can champion student success and foster a collaborative environment within the district, ensuring that the educational needs of all students are met.