The West Contra Costa Unified School District Board of Education unanimously voted Wednesday night to extend Superintendent Matthew Duffy’s contract by two years and rated his work as “Above Satisfactory” on his most recent evaluation.

Duffy, who ends his second year as superintendent on June 30, agreed to extend his contract through June 30, 2021. He will also receive a two percent raise retroactive to July 1, 2017, and a three percent raise effective July 1, 2018. The increases are equal to the percentage increase awarded to other certificated management employees in the District. (Contract Addendum)

“Mr. Duffy has been a steadying influence during his first two years as superintendent. The Board recognizes the need for better student outcomes and believes he has placed our District on a path that will lead to increased success,” Board President Valerie Cuevas said. “Under his leadership our district is focusing on the most effective strategies to support our students and school communities. A key aspect of this work has been his collaborative partnership with this board.”

The contract allows for the superintendent to be rated as “Exceptional,” “Above Satisfactory,” “Satisfactory,” “Needs Improvement,” or “Unsatisfactory.” If the Board gives a rating of “Exceptional” or “Above Satisfactory,” the agreement is extended by one year, and the superintendent receives a salary adjustment equal to the rate awarded to other certificated management employees in the District.

Over the last year, Duffy has championed several initiatives including improving teacher and employee compensation, strengthening early literacy and supporting English learners. The Duffy has also led efforts expanding the K-8 model to three additional schools, raising the number of language immersion program seats, implementing math and writing projects at various schools, and increasing the focus on the lowest performing schools through the Kennedy Family Initiative.

Specific student outcomes also trended up over the last school year, including 1,114 English learner students reclassified, and more African American students earning higher grade point averages.

“It’s an honor to continue leading this community and fight for social justice,” Duffy said. “I’ve certainly heard the areas in which we need to improve, and I will continue to work on those areas. I think we have a clearly defined path and I am thankful for the Board and community for trusting that the Roadmap 2022 will lead to improved outcomes for our students.”

At the same meeting, the Board adopted Roadmap 2022, in which Superintendent Duffy outlined a plan to have 80 percent of third graders reading at grade level, 80 percent of English learners reclassified within five years, 80 percent of African American students proficient in math, and 80 percent of graduates college and career ready by 2022. The roadmap also calls for a goal of having 80 percent of employees to stay in the District for at least five years and 80 percent of families and students report high levels of satisfaction.