Placer Union board appoints Thomas O'Malley as superintendent, approves three-year contract

The Placer Union High School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously to appoint Thomas O'Malley as the district's next superintendent and approved a three-year employment agreement that begins July 1, 2025.

The contract approved by the board sets a base annual salary of $270,000, a potential 3% annual increase following satisfactory evaluations, a district contribution equal to 5% of salary to a tax-deferred annuity, a 225-day work year and participation in district health and welfare benefits on the same terms as other full‑time certificated management employees. The agreement also states the superintendent will accrue one sick day per month and will not accrue vacation or be eligible for overtime.

Board members said the hire followed an extensive, community‑informed search process facilitated by the Placer County Office of Education. Trustee Jeffries moved the appointment, Trustee Duncan seconded, and the board’s vote was unanimous. Acting Superintendent Steve Caminetti and multiple trustees praised O'Malley’s experience and leadership during the public discussion before the vote.

Thomas O'Malley addressed the board after the vote and said, “I’ll show up every day, and you’re gonna get my absolute best.” Trustees also thanked Acting Superintendent Steve Caminetti for his service while the search was conducted.

The board read aloud the contract summary on the public record before the vote, as required by Government Code provisions governing local agency executive compensation. No additional conditions or contingencies were included in the publicly announced summary.

The board did not take additional related actions at the same meeting beyond approving the employment agreement and recording the appointment.