SFUSD honors Superintendent Richard Carranza as he departs for Houston

The San Francisco Unified School District Board of Education on Aug. 23 formally honored Superintendent Richard Carranza as he prepares to leave for the Houston Independent School District.

President Matt Haney and Commissioner Sandra Fewer read a city proclamation and board remarks recognizing Carranza’s tenure, noting a 7.7 percentage‑point increase in SFUSD high‑school graduation rates since 2009 and “more than 50%” fewer suspensions since 2012. The proclamation declared Aug. 23, 2016, Richard Carranza Day in San Francisco and thanked him for programs tied to Vision 2025, early education, and enrichment funds referenced in local ballot measures.

Superintendent Carranza accepted a signed memento of the district’s core values and thanked staff, students and the community for support. “This is really not about me,” Carranza said, praising teachers, paraprofessionals and administrators and urging the board to keep Vision 2025 central in future superintendent searches and board elections.

Board members across the political spectrum praised Carranza’s focus on equity, special‑education inclusion and community partnerships. Commissioner Michelle Furey highlighted Carranza’s leadership for students with disabilities; Commissioner Sophie Wins emphasized his community relationships; and Vice President Walton and others said Houston will benefit from his leadership.

The board’s recognition was ceremonial; no formal policy action accompanied the tribute. The district indicated interim leadership and a superintendent search process will be discussed at upcoming meetings.