Seattle Schools superintendent could leave for post in California

Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Jose Banda



SEATTLE – Seattle Public Schools superintendent Jose Banda may be leaving the district.

Banda has been named a finalist for superintendent in Sacramento California.

Thursday officials in Sacramento had planned to announce their choice, but delayed that announcement at the last minute.  A news conference with Banda has been scheduled for Friday afternoon in Seattle.

The news came in a letter to staff, families and the community from Seattle School board president Sharon Peaslee

“I know I speak for the entire Board that if Mr. Banda becomes Superintendent of Sacramento City Unified, we will be very sorry to see him leave Seattle,” wrote Peaslee.

Banda has deep connections in California and a move to Sacramento would help him get closer to his family.

The board plans to meet later next week to talk about next steps.

“I have a lot of faith in the current leadership team to continue working on behalf of our students,” wrote Peaslee. “The Board will work together with staff and the community to make sure we find another strong leader to guide the District and continue the momentum toward achieving the goals in our Strategic Plan.”

If Banda leaves he will be the latest in what seems to be a revolving door at Seattle School headquarters.

Raj Manhas was named superintendent in 2003 and left in 2006.

Maria Goodlow-Johnson started in the middle of 2007 and was fired in 2011.

Susan Enfield served as interim superintendent from March 2011 until June 2012.

Banda was named to the job shortly there after.