Retiring superintendents were honored during a luncheon at the 2025 Superintendents’ Symposium. From left, Kelly Staley, Helen Rossi, Jim Cloney, Maurice Ghysels, Randal Haggard, Dave Olney, Mary Ann Dewan, Michael Gallagher, Gary Waddell, Robert Martinez, and Ed Navarro are congratulated by Superintendents’ Symposium Planning Committee Chair Janet Schulze.
Retiring supts share their proudest accomplishments
March 3, 2025
ACSA honored the following retiring superintendents with a luncheon during the 2025 Superintendents’ Symposium. Superintendents were asked about their advice for new superintendents, their fondest memories and what they enjoyed most about the job.
Here, they share their proudest accomplishments during their service to California students.
Jim Cloney, Shasta Union HSD
“The tripling in size and scope of our Career Tech Education programs, bringing in over $100 million in new facilities for our students and 17 years of labor peace!”
Mary Ann Dewan, Santa Clara COE
“I am most proud of the establishment of school-based wellness centers and the expansion of early care and education in Santa Clara County.”
Michael Gallagher, Sunnyvale SD
“Observing the whole district embrace annual themes like ‘Together As One’ and ‘Let’s Go!’ For example, we committed to emerging from the pandemic ‘together as one’ and stronger than we entered it, and we did!”
Maurice Ghysels, Pleasanton USD (interim)
“To return to Pleasanton as their interim superintendent after graduating from their schools and teaching at their high school, Amador Valley. After all these years, I received the gift to return to Pleasanton and continue to lead and work tirelessly for our students, families and community. What a blessing!”
Randal Haggard, Buellton Union SD
“Serving families, particularly those families whose children receive specialized services to support their learning.”
Robert Martinez, Antioch USD
“Bringing teams of people together to build new perspectives to support students.”
Ed Navarro, Monte Rio Union SD
“Having our EL community feel more included and heard.”
Dave Olney, Hesperia USD
“Breaking down silos and watching a district truly become more unified.”
Helen Rossi, Martinez USD
“That no matter what I was faced with I was consistent with decisions and never lost sight of who I am, why I was there and the job I had to do.”
Kelly Staley, Chico USD
“I am extremely proud of how we have worked together as a district and a community to overcome big and unexpected challenges. ... I am proud of our resilience and our commitment to addressing each challenge and moving forward with the best interest of students and community in the forefront. “
Gary Waddell, Santa Clara USD
“Equity framework; strategic arts planning; labor management partnership; building a positive culture and climate.”
Retiring superintendents were asked about their advice for new superintendents, their fondest memories and what they enjoyed most about the job.