Irvine Unified board approves contract making Cassie Parham superintendent

The Irvine Unified School District board on a unanimous voice vote approved a three-year contract for Cassie Parham to serve as superintendent effective May 7, 2025. The contract runs through June 30, 2028, and sets an annual salary of $385,000 plus longevity pay and a health benefits package under district terms.

Parham, who had been serving in the district—s leadership team, told the board she was "both humbled and honored to lead an organization that...commit[s] to doing things differently and better." The board described the decision as the culmination of a national search and several months of stakeholder interviews and feedback.

Board members emphasized continuity and the district—s enthusiasm for Parham—s leadership. One trustee said Parham is the district—s first "homegrown" superintendent who knows the district deeply and will provide continuity for staff and students. Several board members noted administrators and site staff expressed relief and support after the selection was announced.

The appointment follows a national recruitment and an extensive stakeholder process involving dozens of local groups and staff. The board reported that the process included input from 36 stakeholder groups and multiple interviews before reaching its recommendation.

With the contract approved, the district will finalize the written contract terms and continue with planned onboarding activities. The board did not record a roll-call tally for the final motion in the transcript; the presiding officer declared the motion passed after the motion and second.

The board adjourned shortly after the action.