Past Superintendents

Dr. Kim Moses (2024–2025)

Dr. Kim Moses served as Interim Superintendent since December 2024 following Dr. Hurst’s retirement. As a proud alumni, Dr. Moses takes this role to heart, bringing a personal commitment to the success of the district’s students and schools. With extensive experience in K-12 leadership, she is dedicated to advancing academic achievement, equity, and community engagement. She prioritizes student success, inclusive programs, and strong district partnerships.  

Dr. Kenneth C. 'Chris' Hurst (2022–2024) 

(Featured in the slideshow above)  

Dr. Hurst was the 10th permanent superintendent and the first permanent African American superintendent of WCCUSD. As superintendent, he focused on strengthening academic programs and improving district-wide equity. He was committed to increasing student engagement, emphasizing social-emotional learning, and addressing mental health needs. His approach included collaborating with families and the community to ensure all students received the support they needed to succeed. Dr. Hurst also worked on updating the district’s infrastructure and expanding career pathways for students, preparing them for future college and career opportunities. His leadership was dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-achieving school environment.

Dr. Matt Duffy (2018–2022)

Dr. Duffy emphasized equitable access to education and improving community engagement during his time as superintendent. He prioritized addressing disparities in student achievement, particularly in underserved communities, and expanded career technical education programs to prepare students for the workforce. Dr. Duffy led the district through a period of financial challenges, working to create a more sustainable fiscal model. His leadership also fostered collaboration between schools, families, and local organizations, enhancing student support services. Under his direction, the district worked toward improving school climate and fostering inclusivity for all students.

Dr. Bruce Harter (2009–2018)

Dr. Harter’s leadership focused on improving student achievement, implementing technology in classrooms, and modernizing school facilities. He introduced the 21st-century learning initiative, which integrated technology and project-based learning into classrooms. Under his guidance, the district secured a $500 million bond for school upgrades, including the construction of new schools and modernization of older campuses. He worked to address the achievement gap, focusing on English learners and underperforming student populations. Dr. Harter’s focus on making WCCUSD a model of equity and innovation left a lasting impact on the district.

Gloria Johnston (1999-2005)

Dr. Gloria Johnston served as Superintendent from 1999 to 2005. Her leadership spanned a critical period in the district’s history, marked by deep financial challenges and the need for structural reform. She stepped into the role as WCCUSD faced a growing budget crisis and worked to restore stability and public trust.

One of the most defining moments of her tenure came in 2004, when the district accepted a $29 million emergency loan from the state to avoid insolvency. The decision, while necessary, resulted in increased state oversight and brought difficult cuts and restructuring. Throughout this time, Johnston remained focused on protecting student learning and ensuring schools could continue to serve their communities.

Despite financial constraints, Johnston prioritized academic quality and accountability. She emphasized the importance of instructional leadership, equity, and community engagement. Her calm and steady presence helped guide the district through a time of uncertainty and set the stage for recovery.

Dr. Johnston is remembered for her integrity, transparency, and commitment to students. Her tenure left a lasting impact on WCCUSD, demonstrating the importance of strong leadership during times of crisis and transition.

Herbert Cole Jr (1991-1999)

Dr. Herbert Cole Jr. served as Superintendent from 1991 to 1999. During his eight-year tenure, he focused on improving academic achievement, strengthening school-community relationships, and promoting equity across the district’s diverse student population.

Cole emphasized early literacy, instructional quality, and student support services, while also working to modernize school facilities. He fostered collaboration among educators, families, and community leaders to ensure schools remained student-centered and responsive to local needs.

While his term did not face the fiscal emergencies that followed in later years, Cole managed budget limitations and changing state funding with a steady hand. His leadership helped the district stay focused on its educational mission during a time of statewide shifts in public education policy.

Dr. Cole is remembered for his calm and thoughtful leadership, his commitment to equity, and his efforts to position WCCUSD for continued progress.