La Canada Unified board approves contract for incoming superintendent Dr. Craddock at $300,000 a year
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Summary
The La Canada Unified School District board voted unanimously to approve an employment contract for Dr. Craddock as superintendent, setting a $300,000 annual salary effective Aug. 1, 2026, and a term through June 30, 2029, plus a 2% district contribution to a tax-deferred plan.
The La Canada Unified School District Governing Board voted to approve an employment contract with Dr. Craddock to serve as superintendent, the board president said at the March 24 meeting.
Board President Caroline Anderson presided over the agenda item and described the contract, which the board recorded under Government Code section 54953. The approved contract sets Dr. Craddock's base salary at $300,000 per year, effective Aug. 1, 2026, with an initial term running through June 30, 2029. The agreement also provides an annual district contribution equal to 2% of salary into a district-administered tax-deferred plan.
Board members praised the search and hiring process before voting. Trustee Josh Epstein moved to approve the contract; Trustee Dan Jeffries seconded. Clerk Nairi conducted a roll call that recorded votes in favor from Caroline Anderson, Josh Epstein, Joe Radebaugh, Octavia Thuss and Dan Jeffries; the motion passed.
After the vote Dr. Craddock, who participated in the meeting, thanked the board and search team. "It was an honor to be part of the search, and the process was really amazing," Dr. Craddock said. "I'm delighted to step into this role and follow our amazing superintendent, Wendy. It's big shoes to fill, but we're looking forward to a smooth transition over the next few months."
Board members who spoke in support described a cautious, parameter-driven negotiation and expressed confidence in the district's choice. Trustee Joe Radebaugh thanked colleagues for the effort on the search and called the candidate "an outstanding superintendent." Trustee Josh Epstein and Trustee Dan Jeffries both said they were excited about next steps.
Next steps described at the meeting included executing the contract and starting a phased transition plan; the board did not record additional terms beyond those above. The item was introduced by the board under the standard public meeting notice and was followed by other personnel and policy actions on the agenda.
