The South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) has released its Superintendent Leadership Profile Report, summarizing insights from community engagement efforts conducted by Education Support Services (ESS) Group between February 19 and March 5, 2025.
The report compiles input from focus groups, interviews, community forums, and a survey with 494 responses to identify district strengths, challenges, and desired leadership qualities.
Research Results by ESS Group
District Strengths
- Diverse Academic Offerings – SPUSD provides AP courses, career pathways, arts, athletics, and specialized services.
- Strong Community Support – High engagement from parents, alumni, and local organizations.
- Balance of Tradition and Progress – A legacy of excellence while adapting to evolving student needs.
Challenges and Issues
- Financial Sustainability – Declining state funding and expiring relief funds create budget concerns.
- Academic & Mental Health Balance – High expectations contribute to student and staff stress.
- Trust & Transparency – Greater inclusion in decision-making is needed.
Desired Superintendent Qualities
Survey participants identified key leadership attributes:
- Visionary Leadership – Strategic thinking and executive experience.
- Transparency & Inclusion – Engaging with staff, students, and the community.
- Financial & Academic Focus – Strong budgeting skills and commitment to student success.
Survey Highlights
- Top Leadership Traits – Trustworthiness (73.9%), educational expertise (65.4%), and forward-thinking (64.4%).
- Key Experience Areas – Teaching and learning (84.3%), community engagement (83.9%), and student wellness (82.4%).
Next Steps in the Superintendent Search
Engagement Phase (Feb 18 – Mar 12, 2025)
- Feb 18: Board workshop with ESS to define search criteria.
- Feb 24 – Mar 5: Community forums, focus groups, and an online survey gather input.
- Mar 11: Leadership Profile Report presented to the Board.
Selection & Hiring Process (Apr – May 2025)
- Apr 1-8: Board reviews applications.
- Apr 8: Candidate shortlist finalized.
- Apr 27-28: First and second-round interviews held.
- TBD: Contract negotiations, background checks, and a possible site visit before the official appointment.
Superintendent Search FAQs
How does the search process work?
The Board has partnered with Education Support Services (ESS) Group to conduct a comprehensive search for SPUSD’s next superintendent. The advisers will gather input from educators, parents, students, and community members, ensuring that candidates align with district priorities. The Board will review applications, interview candidates, and make the final selection.
When will the new Superintendent be hired?
The new superintendent is expected to begin duties on July 1, 2025, or as mutually agreed upon. The full search timeline is available on the SPUSD website.
How can employees, parents, and community members provide input?
During the Engagement Phase, community members can share their input through:
- Focus groups with staff, administrators, and students.
- Community forums, both in-person and virtual.
- An online survey, available for confidential responses.
The Board will use this feedback to guide the selection process.
When will the collected input be shared with the public?
The findings from the Engagement Phase have been compiled into the Superintendent Leadership Profile Report, which was presented to the Board on March 11, 2025. This report is available on the SPUSD website for public review.
Who will make the final selection of SPUSD’s next Superintendent?
While input from the community and stakeholders is considered, the final hiring decision rests with the SPUSD Board of Education.
Can we find out who is applying?
To protect the confidentiality of candidates, the Board is conducting a closed search. Names and application details of candidates will not be publicly disclosed.
How can staff and the public stay informed about the search?
The latest updates on the superintendent search process will be posted on the SPUSD website.
