Jaren Fried, the newly introduced superintendent of the Anaheim Union High School District, addressed district staff to describe his background in the district and to lay out his initial priorities.

“I am deeply honored to serve as the next superintendent of the Anaheim Union High School District,” Fried said, noting that he grew up in the district and later returned as a teacher and administrator. He said the appointment is “a full circle moment.”

Fried described a long career within the district, saying he has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent of human resources and most recently as assistant superintendent of educational services. He framed those roles as shaping his approach and institutional knowledge.

He identified several priorities for his superintendency, saying the district will “center student voice, civic engagement, whole child development and real world readiness through our career pathways, our performance task assessments, and our capstone program.” Fried also said the district will work to ensure “every student has access to opportunity,” that “every family feels welcomed and heard,” and that staff are “trusted professionals empowered to lead, innovate and drive meaningful change.”

Acknowledging structural challenges, Fried listed enrollment shifts, budget uncertainty and a national climate that questions public education as headwinds but expressed confidence the district can meet the moment “with courage, clarity, and unity.” He emphasized that his approach will not be top-down and pledged to work “hand in hand” with teachers, classified staff, counselors, site leaders, union partners, families and community partners.

Quoting leadership author Simon Sinek, Fried summarized his philosophy: “Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge.” He closed by thanking the community for its trust and, on behalf of the board of trustees, wished staff a “happy, safe, and healthy new year.”

Fried did not announce specific policy changes, budget allocations or dates for future board actions during this address. The remarks focused on priorities and intent rather than formal decisions or next procedural steps.