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The Livermore school board has announced a finalist in the search for the district’s new superintendent.
Torie Gibson has been named the board’s top candidate for the position following an extensive search and interview process facilitated by the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District and professional search firm, Leadership Associates.
Pending final contract approval next week, Gibson is poised to succeed outgoing Superintendent Chris Van Schaack, who announced his retirement earlier this year after just two years at the helm of the district, but 37 years in education.
“We were fortunate to have had a number of great candidates to consider during this process, however, I am pleased to say that after careful consideration, Dr. Gibson’s selection was unanimous by our Board. We look forward to the new perspectives and ideas she will bring to our district, while also maintaining the momentum of the progress that we’ve seen in a number of areas,” LVJUSD Board President Emily Prusso said in an announcement Monday.
Gibson, who most recently served as dual superintendent for the Amador County Office of Education and Amador County Unified School District, will bring 26 years of educational experience to Livermore.
Gibson’s career includes K-12 leadership experience from schools and districts of varying sizes from both urban and rural areas throughout San Joaquin, Sacramento, Nevada and Amador counties. In addition to her nine years of superintendent experience, she has served in vice principal, principal and director of program improvement roles.
According to LVJUSD’s announcement, Gibson believes the overall educational success of students requires a focus on both their academic and social-emotional needs, which aligns with LVJUSD’s Framework for Success. To achieve the educational goals desired for students, Gibson maintains that creating a strong team on a foundation of transparency and trust is paramount.
“Collaboration and open communication are essential to creating a cohesive culture. Successful leadership requires approachability and consistent engagement with those inside and outside the organization,” Gibson said in the press release.
Gibson earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and an administrative credential from California State University, Sacramento; a Masters in Education counseling from Chapman University; and a doctorate degree in organizational leadership from the University of LaVerne.
The daughter of a now-retired teacher, Gibson grew up in Red Bluff where her family was involved in cattle ranching. She will relocate to Livermore with her husband Mark and their Portuguese water dog, Pavlov.
“I am excited to become a part of the Livermore community. My goal is to build on the strong foundation that exists and to work collaboratively to ensure that we continue providing exceptional educational opportunities for all students,” Gibson said. “I look forward to meeting each of you, hearing your ideas, and working together to achieve great things for our schools and community. Thank you for welcoming me to Livermore. I am eager to get started and to embark on this exciting journey with all of you.”
Gibson’s employment contract will be presented for board approval at its regularly scheduled meeting set for next Tuesday (June 18).
Although the district previously noted a plan to have its new superintendent begin work July 1, their announcement Monday said that Gibson’s start date is yet to be determined but is planned to be well in advance of the start of the 2024-25 school year, which begins Aug. 13.
