SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. (October 6, 2021) –The South Pasadena Unified School District’s Board of Education is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the board that was created when Dr. Suzie Abajian resigned her position as a result of relocating outside of South Pasadena.

     “On behalf of the South Pasadena Unified School District Board of Education, we express our sincerest gratitude for the countless hours of service given by Dr. Suzie Abajian during the past six years in her role as a school board member,“ said SPUSD Board President Dr. Ruby Kalra. “The students, families, faculty and staff have benefited from her thoughtful approach to public education in this community including her advocacy for a more inclusive culture and curriculum, support for significant growth and facilities development, and assistance in aligning safety and social-emotional initiatives for our students during the pandemic.”

     Abajian was first elected to the Board of Education in 2015 and was reelected in November 2020. At a special board meeting on October 5, the Board voted to appoint a new member who will serve until the next board election, which will be in November 2022.

 
     At that time, the seat will be open for election for a two-year term. The appointed board member may run for the two-year open seat in the November 2022 election, if the individual continues to meet eligibility requirements and the new district-based election criteria. To access the Board presentation and overview explaining how to fill vacancies on a school board, please follow this link.

     To be eligible to serve on the board, a person must be (as per Education Code 35107):

     Applications may be found here. Completed applications may be emailed to the Superintendent’s office at [email protected]. Applications will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 22, 2021.

     Applicants will be selected to participate in the interview process, which will take place during a special board meeting on November 2, 2021. The final appointment will occur during an open session at the November 9, 2021 board meeting. 

     For any questions regarding this appointment process, contact the Superintendent’s office at [email protected] or 626-441-5810 ext. 1100 or visit the SPUSD website.

About South Pasadena Unified School District
Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,800 students within five schools including three elementary schools, one middle school and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California.  Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation for providing high quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state and national level.  The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs and booster clubs.

For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, [email protected].