BREAKING: Kim Moses, a key leader at the West Contra Costa Unified School District, has announced her retirement effective at the end of the school year, marking the end of nearly two decades of dedicated service. This announcement comes as the district navigates significant financial challenges, making her departure even more impactful.
Moses has been a cornerstone of the district, having previously served as interim superintendent and overseeing critical financial decisions that have shaped its future. Superintendent Cheryl Cotton expressed deep gratitude, stating, “We will miss Dr. Moses’s wisdom and leadership, but we are also grateful for the legacy she leaves behind.”
A product of the West Contra Costa Unified School District herself, Moses began her educational journey as a teacher in the Oakland Unified School District. She earned multiple degrees, including a doctorate from East Carolina University, and has held various roles within the district, including principal positions at several elementary schools. Her leadership has been crucial in steering the district through turbulent financial waters, including a past state takeover and the repayment of a nearly $29 million loan.
Despite the challenges, Moses successfully led the district to secure a new agreement with the Contra Costa County Office of Education to address ongoing financial issues, which includes cutting $32.7 million from the budget over the next three years. Her retirement announcement comes just weeks after the district reached tentative agreements with Teamsters Local 856 and the United Teachers of Richmond, both of which secured an 8% pay increase over two years, better health benefits, and improved working conditions for staff.
As Moses prepares to leave, the urgency for her successor grows. The district’s board and Cotton are expected to select a replacement who will begin serving during the upcoming spring semester. Trustee Demetrio Gonzalez-Hoy highlighted the need for a swift transition on social media, indicating the importance of continuity in leadership amidst ongoing negotiations.
The emotional impact of Moses’s departure resonates deeply with staff and students alike. Her commitment to education and the community has left an indelible mark, and many are left wondering how the district will navigate the upcoming challenges without her guidance.
As the West Contra Costa Unified School District prepares for this transition, all eyes will be on the board’s decision regarding Moses’s successor and how they will continue her legacy while addressing the pressing financial landscape. The community is encouraged to stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the board announces next steps in the transition process.
