Redwood City School District honors retiring superintendent John Baker and welcomes incoming superintendent Christian Rubalcaba

Trustees and community members filled the boardroom June 24 to honor Superintendent John Baker on his final meeting after more than 40 years in education.

Dennis Bridal, a long-time community member, praised Baker’s leadership and compassion, saying, “John, you have always believed that our children are the treasure of the community,” and described Baker’s tenure as marked by “calm, respectful, compassionate” decision-making. Legislative representatives and former trustees sent resolutions and online tributes recognizing Baker’s service.

David Burdo, representing Assemblymember Diane Pappan, presented a resolution thanking Baker for his decades of service. An online comment from former trustee Alisa McAvoy also credited Baker’s leadership and work with students, families and staff.

Incoming Superintendent Dr. Christian Rubalcaba addressed the board and district, thanking Baker for his mentorship and saying he looked forward to continuing the district’s focus on students. The board presented Baker with a plaque and held a brief reception.

As part of the transition, trustees approved a set of routine administrative resolutions to update signing authority, add the incoming superintendent to district signatories and remove Baker where appropriate. Trustees described those items as customary steps when onboarding a new superintendent; the board adopted the resolutions by voice vote.

The meeting closed with a formal motion to farewell Baker and to welcome Dr. Rubalcaba, which trustees approved.