Moving Forward Together: A Message from Dr. Maurice Ghysels, PUSD’s New Permanent Superintendent

Dear PUSD Community,

At last night’s Board meeting, I was appointed as your permanent Superintendent with a two-year contract starting July 1. I am deeply honored to continue serving in this incredible district: The Pleasanton Unified School District. 

When I first returned to PUSD last July as your Interim Superintendent, I expected a short-term role to help guide the district through a leadership transition. When the need for steady leadership remained last October, I made the uncommon decision to “unretire” and step back into full-time service, driven by a deep commitment to this district and the people who make it special. A primary goal was to set PUSD up with a permanent superintendent. Just last week, I was ready to “ride off into the sunset.”

When the Board offered me the opportunity to stay on as permanent superintendent, it was quite a surprise, yet it was an easy decision to make. I accepted the charge with humility and enthusiasm, honored by their trust and inspired by the incredible work performed by Team PUSD in our exemplary schools and programs. I am fortunate to be a member of our team, earning the privilege of collaborating with outstanding professionals who are dedicated and committed to our students, families, and community.  

All said, we have our work cut out for us. Like many California districts, we continue to face financial challenges from declining enrollment and economic uncertainty. But we must keep our eyes on what matters most: our students. They are why we do what we do.

This summer, I’ll remain focused on the momentum we’ve created – establishing new and strengthening existing relationships, advancing our construction work, and ensuring our campuses are ready to welcome back our teachers on August 4 and our students on August 7.

In the meantime, I hope you’re finding time to rest, recharge, and definitely have some summer fun! If you have the time, please feel free to stop by my office or reach out to me.

I truly appreciate your confidence and support, and I will do my best to meet your expectations. 

Onward,

Dr. Maurice Ghysels
Superintendent, PUSD