PUSD Board challenged to evaluate superintendent Darren Knowles on governance standards

During the Pomona Unified School District (PUSD) Board meeting on April 16, 2025, a significant challenge was issued regarding the evaluation of Superintendent Darren Knowles. A board member called for an independent assessment of the superintendent's performance, emphasizing the need for adherence to governance standards and the importance of clearly defined job expectations.

The board member highlighted that the absence of specific performance goals over the past five years has hindered effective evaluations. They stressed that annual evaluations are not only a fundamental responsibility of the board but also a legal requirement. The call for a structured evaluation process aims to foster improvements in the superintendent's performance, which in turn would benefit the entire school district.

Concerns were raised about the current evaluation policies, which the board member described as outdated. They argued that a clear division of responsibilities between the board and the superintendent is essential to eliminate favoritism and ensure accountability. The board member questioned the board's decision to reappoint a superintendent who has faced criticism for failing to protect students, support teacher development, and adequately manage special education services.

This discussion underscores the ongoing challenges within the PUSD regarding leadership accountability and the need for a transparent evaluation process. The board's response to these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future direction of the district and ensuring that it meets the needs of its students and staff.