By Lauren Farberman
Staff Writer
The Orinda Union School District appointed Manhattan Beach Unified School District Executive Director of Human Resources Carolyn Seaton as Superintendent and the new position will take effect on Feb. 9.
The OUSD announced Seaton’s new position following the retirement of Dr. Joe Jaconette on Jan. 31 after serving as Superintendent since 2007.
“I am honored to become Superintendent of the Orinda District,” Seaton said. “I am eager to take what I have learned from my work in the Manhattan Beach Unified School district to my new district.”
The Orinda Board members interviewed five candidates for Superintendent during the first week of Jan. A final candidate was decided on Jan 16 but remained confidential until the Board announced it at their Feb 9 Board meeting. Until Seaton takes office Kathy Marshall has been appointed Interim Superintendent of the Orinda District.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to support the Orinda School District during this transition period,” Marshall said in a statement on the Orinda website. “I am confident the new Superintendent will continue Orinda on a path of excellence.”
Seaton’s appointment of Superintendent is based on community input received through numerous community meetings, a community forum and an online survey to determine what qualities were most desired in a superintendent according to Orinda’s site . Over 400 parents, teachers, administrators, staff, students and community members contributed to the search process.
“I am honored to become Superintendent of the Orinda District,” Seaton said. “I am eager to take what I have learned from my work in the Manhattan Beach Unified School district to my new district.”
According to the Orinda District’s website, Seaton was chosen because she is a dynamic, confident, skilled and articulate leader who can establish a collaborative culture in the district. The community input also established the importance of selecting a Superintendent who is visionary, progressive and forward-thinking.
“I look forward to partnering with district, school, community, and business organizations to expand the educational opportunities available for students,” Seaton said. “I am passionate about teaching and learning and committed to providing Orinda’s children with the educational experiences that will best prepare them for college, career and life.”
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