March 6, 2013

Dear Parents, Staff and Members of the Community,

On Wednesday, March 6, at a regular meeting, the Kentfield School Board of Trustees enthusiastically approved a contract with Liz Schott, who will become our new Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, 2013. This successfully concludes our search that began in June 2012 when Mary Jo Pettegrew our superintendent for the past 5 years, announced her retirement.

Ms. Schott is currently serving as Superintendent/Principal and Director of Special Education for the Sebastopol Union School District (SUSD). In 2010 the Sebastopol School Board asked Liz to assume the duties of superintendent in addition to continuing as Principal at Pine Crest School. Combining positions was necessary due to the continuing decline in state funding. She has masterfully led the district through the difficult challenges of consolidating schools due to declining enrollment as well successfully leading the efforts of passing a bond and parcel tax in 2 elections within 6 months.

Originally from Kentfield, Schott returns to her roots. “It is an honor to be chosen by the the Board of Trustees to be the next leader of the Kentfield School District,” says Liz. “I look forward to getting to know Kentfield’s staff, families, students and community members as I work with this exemplary district to further realize its vision and mission.”

The Board selected Schott as the finalist on February 15, after a 6 month search. Simply put, Liz was the best fit for Kentfield. Her commitment to children, teachers and the advancement of public education resonated with the Board. We firmly believe Liz has the skills, drive and grace to lead our district as we continue to provide quality education to the children of our community.

As part of the selection process, KSD sent a small representative team of teachers, administrators, parents and trustees to Sebastopol to meet with stakeholder groups at SUSD. During the site visit Sebastopol representatives spoke enthusiastically of Schott’s leadership, authenticity and commitment to put students first. They described her as hard working, a team player, community minded and transparent.

Liz will be introduced at our next Board meeting on Tuesday, March 12, at 5:00 PM. We will then host an open house in early Spring to welcome Liz to the Kentfield School District. All students, staff, parents and members of the community at large will be invited to attend.

The Board appreciates the support offered by our staff and community during this search process. We believe all of the comments and suggestions regarding desired qualities and characteristics for the new superintendent are reflected in this exceptional educational leader.

Please join us in extending a very warm welcome to Liz Schott, our new Superintendent of Schools.

Sincerely, 

Kentfield School District Board of Trustees