As you are all aware, Suzanne Monroe is retiring this year, and the Board contracted with Dave Long & Associates to help us find a new Superintendent. We believe that we have made an excellent choice in Dr. David East who comes to us from the Woodlake District.
We would like to share with you a bit of Dr. East’s background, and also portions of his recommendations. Larry Bunch and Gail Monohon spent a day in Woodlake talking with board members, as well as with both classified and certificated staff. They expressed respect and sincere affection for David – they will miss him there!
David East has a B.A. in Liberal Studies/Psychology from CSU Long Beach, and started out as a K-8 classroom teacher in the Cutler-Orosi District in1989. He then served as Title VII Project Specialist before becoming an Assistant Principal in that district.
He earned his Masters Degree in Bilingual Education and Administrative Services at Fresno Pacific University in 1993, and accepted a position as Director of Technology and Bilingual Education in the Exeter Union School District for 1998-99.
In 1999, David began working in the Woodlake District as Principal of the Middle School, where he was chosen as ACSA Region 11 Middle Schools Principal of the Year. He remained at that school until 2008, when he became Assistant Superintendent.
David earned his Doctor of Education Degree through the CSUF/UC Davis Joint Program in 2002. He holds Multiple Subject, Administrative Services, and Bilingual Specialist Credentials. He is fluent in Spanish.
Dr. East is passionate about all students yet harbors a deep sense of responsibility to our English Learner population. He has taken test information directly to the parents, providing tips that will help parents be a support in their student’s language development even if they are not English speakers themselves.
Dr. East is a tireless worker in getting the outside community involved in school site decisions. A term that he often uses is “toxic learning environment.” He will not tolerate a school culture that robs students of their opportunity as learners or that has a negative effect on the total program. He insists that the school campus is a safe place for students and staff.
David East has been a leader in a number of programs such as: fine arts, interventions to increase the success of our English/language arts learners, increased opportunities in technology, the AVID college readiness program, and vocational technology.
Dr. East’s leadership style is one that raises both the skills and expectations of teachers and students by: challenges, demonstrations, and empowerment.
An important characteristic required of an administrator is flexibility in thought and action. David has demonstrated this with staff, students, and parents.
He is calm in nature yet decisive. He has proven himself time and time again to be an effective leader by listening to the concerns of all and devising a planned solution where all parties feel valued.
David East is a person of the highest moral character. He is respected by his peers and his staff. This is a deeply held trust that David has earned by dealing with tough situations in an honest and open way.
It is with great pleasure and high expectations that the Board presents to you our new Superintendent for the coming year: Dr. David East.
