OUSD's Pick for Interim Superintendent Backs Out of Job

Glendora Unified Superintendent Penelope DeLeon has withdrawn from the position of Interim Superintendent of the Ojai Unified School District four days after she was appointed. OUSD trustees voted 3-2 to appoint DeLeon on March 22, though the hire was not yet finalized.  

Ojai Unified School Board President Rebecca Chandler said the following in a statement to Ojai Valley News: 

"Once it became clear that there was a 3-2 vote, and after spending the last few days evaluating the issues at hand, [DeLeon] determined that it would be virtually impossible to overcome the significant challenges of the district without the full community support denoted by a 5-0 vote.

"In order to promote the success of the district, Dr. DeLeon selflessly withdrew. We wish her all the best and success in the future." 

Former OUSD Superintendent Tiffany Morse reached a separation agreement with the district this month after four years at the helm. OUSD is under massive financial strain and potential insolvency is looming. With DeLeon pulling out of consideration, the district is now scrambling to find a temporary schools chief.