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Board confirms John Gutierrez as San Bernardino City Unified school police chief
Summary
The board approved John Gutierrez as chief of school police after a stakeholder-driven, multi-phase search process. Gutierrez, who previously led Cal State San Bernardino Police, pledged community-focused, student-centered policing and collaboration with district staff and campus security.
The San Bernardino City Unified School District Board of Education voted to approve John Gutierrez as the district’s new chief of school police following a stakeholder-driven selection process.
Dr. Zayzon Doizan introduced Gutierrez and described a multi-phase search that included community forums, surveys and interview panels. The board voted to appoint Gutierrez in open session after his selection in closed session.
Gutierrez, who most recently served as chief of police at Cal State San Bernardino, told the board he plans to emphasize student-centered, community-focused policing, restorative practices, and close engagement with campus administrators and campus safety officers. "Our students deserve to feel safe, valued, and supported every single day," Gutierrez said, adding that safety can hinge on issues like food scarcity and homelessness, not only discrete incidents.
Board members thanked the search committee and interim staff who covered the department during the recruitment. The appointment was moved by Dr. Wyatt and seconded by Mr. Tillman; the motion carried by recorded vote.
Staff said Gutierrez’s hiring included multiple rounds of interviews, reference checks and background review; the board did not discuss personnel contract specifics in open session.
