GREENFIELD — Dr. Brian Walker begins his appointment July 1 as South Monterey County Joint Union High School District’s new superintendent.
The Governing Board ratified his contract at its Greenfield High School meeting on May 24, where Walker’s wife Shelly accompanied him.
Walker has an education doctorate degree in educational leadership and policy analysis from the University of Southern California. Previously, he was superintendent at Dos Palos Oro Loma Joint Unified School District in Merced County.
Walker was attracted to the South Monterey County position for several reasons, including that the district is in a “good position” being fiscally solvent and the job poses a new challenge as he will now be at the helm of a joint high school district. He also said the work the Board does through its Study Sessions to become “better” trustees is something he thinks is a “good role model” for other districts to follow.
Lastly, Walker credits outgoing Superintendent Dr. Daniel Moirao’s student performance improvement as a draw. Moirao is proud of his “Bring on the Pride” legacy, with test scores and graduation rates having improved considerably since he took over.
Moirao retires after five years of service as superintendent.
Walker looks forward to working with the trustees and becoming better acquainted with the district. He spoke enthusiastically about taking advantage of funding available to propose “ideas out of the box” to improve student learning now that school districts are in a better position financially after suffering ongoing state cuts.
Board President Paulette Bumbalough is excited about the amount of administrative experience that Walker brings to the superintendent position. She looks forward to his being involved with the students, the schools and the cities.
Walker will have a 227 work-day schedule and will earn $185,000 for the 2017-2018 school year, with future increases as mutually agreed upon. He will receive health benefits and life insurance as do certificated employees of the district.
He will have monthly allowances to conduct district business, $500 for auto and $70 for cell phone, and will be reimbursed for work-related travel.
The district will also pay for his school and community organization membership dues.
A welcoming reception for Walker was held Tuesday, May 30, at Greenfield High School. Another reception is scheduled for tonight, May 31, at 6 p.m. at the King City High School cafeteria.
