First female superintendent hired in SDCOE history

Domenick Candelieri
·2 min read
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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The San Diego County Office of Education recently announced a historic hire.

Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza will become the first female county superintendent in SDCOE’s 76-year history, education officials said in a press release on Monday.

SDCOE describes the San Diego County Superintendent of Schools position as follows:

  • Operating programs and services that allow districts and schools to focus on providing a high-quality learning experience for children and families while leveraging economies of scale to enhance effectiveness and save taxpayer dollars.

  • Having direct oversight responsibilities for approving and assuring school district budgets, calling school district elections and assisting with school district emergencies.

Ciriza, currently the assistant superintendent of Student Services and Programs at SDCOE, is a 30-year educator. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Slippery Rock University, a master’s degree in education administration from National University and a doctorate in educational leadership from San Diego State University.

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“I am thrilled to be selected and to continue advancing progress towards SDCOE’s North Star so that every child thrives in school, career, and life,” Ciriza said. “It’s an honor to be the first woman in this role, to provide representation for young women and people of color, and to advocate for all students. I look forward to connecting with educational partners throughout our region and leading the organization with integrity, compassion, and grace.”

Ciriza’s career started as a substitute teacher in the National School District and teaching third, fourth, fifth and seventh grades in the San Diego and Poway unified school districts. She was a principal at Heritage Elementary School when it was the highest performing of 47 schools in the Chula Vista Elementary School District, as well as director of human resources, executive director of curriculum, instruction, and assessment, and assistant superintendent of instruction for the South Bay school district.

Ciriza is expected to replace Superintendent Dr. Paul Gothold, who is retiring after seven years, on July 1.

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