Educators say inexperience and on-the-job training are not options in the increasingly diverse district

In anticipation of new leadership in an award-winning district, Temecula Valley Educators Association (TVEA) organized members to speak at the Temecula Valley Unified School District (TVUSD) and deliver a petition signed by a supermajority of its members. Speakers who participated are recommending TVUSD institute a robust vetting process that will surface a superintendent with Kindergarten through high school education experience and the ability to meet the needs of a dynamic, vibrant, and increasingly diverse suburban community.

To do so, TVEA wants to see a hiring process that focuses on three elements; community, culture, and critical analysis.

The choice of a superintendent has a community-wide impact. It is critical that the voices of the community have an opportunity to weigh in before a decision of this magnitude is made. By engaging in a transparent and rigorous process, the community will gain a greater sense of ownership in how the individual was chosen, and help ensure a proper fit for the district.

TVEA also sees the selection process as an opportunity to break out of what many believe to be an insular culture at TVUSD. President Jeff Kingsberg explained that it’s a chance for TVUSD to move away from the “We know best” approach in favor of a “Let’s determine what’s best” framework that empowers all community stakeholders.

Getting there will not be easy, but it will be easier with an approach that includes a critical analysis of possible candidates and a rigorous vetting that will lead to an exemplary hire. By delivering a strong message from their members, TVEA has indicated an expectation that TVUSD will join in partnership with all community stakeholders to select the best possible candidate to lead the Temecula Valley Unified School District.