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Antioch Unified board approves contract for Dr. Darnice R. Williams as superintendent amid public process concerns
Summary
The Antioch Unified School District board voted to approve an employment agreement for Dr. Darnice R. Williams to begin as superintendent on July 1, 2025, after a divided discussion and public criticism that the finalist was disclosed too late for community review.
The Antioch Unified School board approved an employment agreement to hire Dr. Darnice R. Williams as superintendent effective July 1, 2025, after trustees moved and seconded the contract during Tuesday’s meeting.
Board President Hernandez announced the board’s finalist earlier in the evening and read required terms of the proposed contract aloud, including a July 1, 2025–June 30, 2028 term, a moving reimbursement cap of $12,000 if the superintendent relocates into the district, and a $300 monthly automobile allowance. Physical copies of the contract were made available in the boardroom prior to the vote.
Public commenter Alan Payton, who identified himself as a local resident and media member, urged postponement and criticized the timing of the finalist announcement. “What is the rush? … I knew nothing about this until today,” he said, arguing the public should have an opportunity to review the candidate and the contract before a vote.
Vice President Roachcha said she would vote against the contract, citing reservations she had developed during the finalist interviews: “I will be voting no on this contract and I will tell you why,” she said. Trustees Brown and Dr. Lean voted in favor; President Hernandez also voted yes. The motion passed on the board majority.
After the vote, Dr. Darnice R. Williams, who was in the audience, addressed the board and public. “I am super excited to be your finalist now … your superintendent as of July 1, 2025,” she said, outlining her record working with multilingual learners, foster youth and students experiencing homelessness and pledging a listening-focused approach that includes families, staff and students.
Board members described a multi-step, confidential search process that included stakeholder interviews, community panels and work by a search firm the board referenced during its remarks. Trustees who supported the hire said confidentiality is a normal part of superintendent searches and that the board had solicited input from parents, staff and community partners during the process.
The board did not identify a mover or seconder on the public record beyond generic motion language; the vote was recorded by roll call as reflected in the meeting minutes. The board said it will continue public outreach as Dr. Williams transitions into the role.
