Board appoints John Gutierrez as SBCUSD chief of school police

The San Bernardino City Unified School District Board approved the appointment of John Gutierrez as the district’s new Chief of School Police following closed‑session action.

A district representative introduced Gutierrez to the board, noting a multi‑phase, stakeholder‑driven hiring process that included community forums and diverse interview panels. Gutierrez, who most recently served as Chief of Police at Cal State San Bernardino and has more than two decades of experience, addressed the board and community and outlined his priorities.

“I plan to lead with integrity, I plan to lead responsibly, and I plan to be student‑centered,” Gutierrez said, adding that officers and campus security should serve as mentors and community partners. He said the role of school policing includes understanding students’ broader challenges — from food insecurity to homelessness — and connecting them to supports.

The hiring was announced as a reported action from closed session. The motion to approve the appointment was made by Dr. Wyatt and seconded by Mr. Tillman; board members voted to carry the motion.

The board’s introduction described the selection as grounded in transparency and inclusion; staff said background and reference checks and multiple interview panels informed the decision. Gutierrez thanked the board and community for the opportunity and emphasized collaborative work with administrators, teachers and student leaders.

Next steps: Gutierrez will assume duties as Chief of School Police; staff said they will coordinate meetings with campus administrators and community partners to outline priorities and implementation steps.