WHITTIER – The Whittier Union High School District Board of Trustees has voted to proceed with a provisional appointment to fill the upcoming vacancy resulting from the retirement of Dr. Ralph S. Pacheco, the longest-standing member of the District’s Board.

The Board’s decision was made following a thorough discussion during the May 9 Board meeting. Dr. Pacheco, currently serving as the Board Vice President, announced his retirement during the April 11 Board meeting, with his official retirement date set for Friday, July 7, 2023.

As per the established process, Dr. Pacheco submitted his formal resignation letter to Los Angeles County Office of Education Superintendent Dr. Debra Duardo on May 8, triggering a 60-day period within which the Board must decide between a special election or a provisional appointment to fill the vacancy.

Recognizing the significant financial implications of a special election, estimated at $1,008,000, and the imperative of maintaining representation for the communities Dr. Pacheco serves for Trustee Area 3, the Board unanimously voted in favor of a provisional appointment.

This alternative approach entails a comprehensive selection process involving the publication of position advertisements, applicant screening, interviews, deliberations and the approval of the selected candidate. The provisional selection will be publicized before being officially seated.

The provisional trustee will assume their responsibilities after July 7 and serve the remaining term until November 2024. However, in the event of a successful community petition, the provisional appointment may be subject to change.

“The Whittier Union High School District remains dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities and ensuring that the voices of all students, families and communities are represented on the Board of Trustees,” Board President Jaime López said in a written statement. “The selection process for the provisional appointment will be conducted with transparency, diligence and a steadfast commitment to fulfilling the District’s mission, ‘To Achieve and Maintain Excellence.’”

The Whittier Union High School District will begin the advertising process for the provisional appointment immediately. Applications will be available in the Superintendent’s Office beginning Monday, May 15 with additional information available on the District’s website. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit their applications to the Superintendent’s Office by Friday, May 26.

For questions or additional information, contact olga.sedillo@wuhsd.org or call (562) 698-8121 ext. 1000.

Following the application screening during the final week of May, selected candidates will be invited for interviews scheduled for Saturday, June 10. The Board will deliberate and cast their vote after the interviews, finalizing the appointment of the provisional trustee.

“Whittier Union High School District is committed to conducting a thorough and diligent process to ensure that the selected candidate represents the best interests of the District’s diverse communities,” Superintendent Dr. Monica Oviedo said.

To learn more about the process to fill the seat for Trustee Area 3, visit bit.ly/WUHSD_BoardVacancy.