SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

THE DISTRICT

“Every Student.  Every Opportunity.  Every Challenge”

Established in 1886, South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,800 students at three elementary schools, one middle school, and one comprehensive high school. SPUSD has earned a reputation for providing high-quality, public education and attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers.

SPUSD students frequently earn honors at the local, state and national level. The three elementary schools and the middle school have been named National Blue Ribbon Schools. All five schools have been awarded California Distinguished Schools honors; and the high school also has received a Best High School National Ranking from U.S. News and World Report.

The District receives vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs, and booster clubs. A $98 million bond measure has helped improve facilities, and parcel tax funds help keep class sizes manageable and pay for arts programs, counseling programs, and advanced instruction in core academic areas including science and technology.

Continually evolving to prepare for the future, SPUSD focuses on four strategic goals as outlined by the School Board and administration. These goals embody urgent and important ideas and guide planning and decision making for the District.

VISION STATEMENT

Our students reach their individual potential by developing intellectual abilities, emotional maturity, unique talents, love of learning and responsibility for their own learning. They confidently participate in the complex, global environment.

THE OPPORTUNITY

South Pasadena Unified School District seeks a Superintendent who demonstrates the ability to:

• Set a clear vision/direction for teaching and learning.
• Inspire an atmosphere of support, exploration, and teamwork among staff and students.
• Remain visible and accessible to employees, families, and the greater community.
• Communicate clearly and openly with education partners.
• Develop/maintain positive relationships with employee associations.
• Ensure the long-term fiscal health of the district.
• Work collaboratively with the Governing Board.
• Inspire innovation and continuous improvement.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

• A seasoned educational leader with a proven track record of success
• 3-5 years of cabinet-level (or equivalent) administrative experience
• Knowledge of instruction, business, and human resource functions in California’s public schools
• Principal experience preferred

SALARY/CONTRACT

Competitive compensation based on qualifications and experience; a multi-year contract will be considered by the Board. Salary based on experience/qualifications: $275,000-$325,000.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

A completed application at https://www.edjoin.org/Home/JobPosting/204060  along with the following documents:

• Cover Letter of Introduction
• Résumé
• Minimum of three (maximum of five) current Letters of Recommendation
• Attach a dated, original article/letter/press release that best reflects your writing style when conveying information to a wide audience

APPLICATION DEADLINE                Monday, March 24, 2025 at 5:00 PM

TENTATIVE INTERVIEW DATES

Sunday, April 27, 2025            First Level Interview              

Monday, April 28, 2025          Second Level Interview

SELECTION PROCESS

The Board of Education has retained Dr. Steven Keller and Dr. Gary Rutherford from Education Support Services (ESS) to engage in a confidential search to recruit the most highly qualified candidate for this position. Any direct contact with individual trustees during the recruitment or selection phases of the search will result in a candidate’s removal from the process. For more information, please contact:

Dr. Steven Keller         steven.keller@aalrr.com                   714.272.3928

Dr. Gary Rutherford    grutherford@aalrr.com                       760.578.2096

About ESS

Contact ESS Consultants: Dr. Gary Rutherford grutherford@aalrr.com Dr. Steven Keller, steven.keller@aalrr.com

Connections working at ESS