After a career of 39 years in public education, Sequoia Union High School District Superintendent Jim Lianides will be retiring at the end of this school year in June 2017.
Lianides decided to retire due to his desire for a change in his life.
“It’s time to move on and pursue other interests. As I transition to the next chapter in my life, I look forward to spending more time with family and friends, possibly pursuing other educational endeavors, and having greater opportunities for travel,” said Lianides.
The role of the superintendent ranges from a wide variety of different tasks, including leadership and decision-making responsibilities.
Lianides said, “The responsibility of the superintendent is to be the chief executive officer of the school district. The district’s principals and assistant superintendents are direct reports to me. As superintendent, I am involved with budget planning, curriculum and instruction, construction, and important matters relating to our school sites.”
Lianides’ retirement should not have an immediate effect on students at Carlmont.
Principal Ralph Crame said, “The superintendent’s retirement should not affect students at Carlmont right away. We will have to wait and see what the vision is for the new superintendent. If their vision is drastically different than that of the current superintendent, people may see changes that could affect Carlmont students.”
Many students at Carlmont are not affected by this announcement of the change in administration.
Mandy Zhang, a junior, said, “I am aware that the superintendent is leaving, but I have not personally met him before. His retirement will not significantly affect my academic life because I have never interacted with him before.”
The school district has asked students to participate in a survey that will assist the district board members in searching for Lianides’ replacement.
Despite his excitement to start a new chapter in his life, Lianides is sad to leave the Sequoia Union High School District community.
In a letter addressed to staff members in the school district, Lianides said, “Making an important personal decision such as this is always a difficult and deeply reflective task. I am proud to have had the opportunity to serve in the Sequoia Union High School District and to be associated with such a strong community of staff, parents, and students. I will especially miss working with the dedicated, professional staff throughout our district.”
