Beverly Hills Appoints New Superintendent for BHUSD

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A positive learning environment in Beverly Hills schools.

News Summary

Beverly Hills Unified School District welcomes Dr. Alex Cherniss as its new superintendent following a controversial leadership transition. Cherniss, a familiar face in the district with extensive experience, aims to prioritize academic achievement, transparency, and effective communication. His appointment comes after the board engaged the community for input on the new superintendent’s qualifications. As Cherniss prepares to officially start on June 1, the community hopes for positive changes and a collaborative future under his leadership.

Beverly Hills Welcomes New Superintendent: A Fresh Start for BHUSD

Beverly Hills, California, is buzzing with excitement following the announcement of Dr. Alex Cherniss as the new superintendent of the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD). His appointment, made official on April 10, comes after the controversial resignation of his predecessor, Dr. Michael Bregy, earlier in the year.

Dr. Cherniss: A Familiar Face

Dr. Cherniss isn’t a stranger to BHUSD. In fact, he has a rich history with the district, having served in various roles such as a middle school math teacher, K-8 principal, and even as the director of human resources. His extensive experience doesn’t stop there; he has held leadership positions as superintendent in three different school districts, showcasing a strong grasp of educational leadership.

While many in the community are excited about Cherniss’s return to BHUSD, it’s important to acknowledge the backdrop of Bregy’s departure. Bregy’s resignation in February raised eyebrows and prompted community members to seek more clarity on the decision-making process. As a result, the BHUSD board was quick to engage the community by distributing a survey to identify the priorities that residents wanted to see in their new superintendent.

Community Input Matters

The feedback from the community survey pointed to three top priorities: academic achievement, transparency, and effective communication. With these vital areas in mind, the BHUSD board sought a leader who would not only uphold the district’s educational standards but also foster a culture of openness among stakeholders.

Balancing Opinions

Solid Track Record

Dr. Cherniss’s credentials are impressive. He recently served as the superintendent of Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, where he spearheaded initiatives such as the Orange County School of Computer Sciences and the Universal Sports Institute. His experience as chief financial officer for the Los Angeles County Office of Education further solidifies his expertise in managing significant budgets, totaling over $14 billion across 80 school districts. Cherniss is well-educated, holding a doctorate in education from USC’s Rossier School of Education, and promotes a leadership philosophy centered on equity, innovation, and collaboration.

What’s Next for BHUSD?

As Dr. Cherniss prepares to step into his new role, the board is set to formally present his contract during the Board of Education meeting on April 15. If everything goes according to plan, he will officially take on the superintendent position by June 1, setting the stage for a new chapter for BHUSD.

Until then, Dr. Jason Hasty will continue in the role of acting superintendent, overseeing the district’s business services department. With all eyes now looking towards Dr. Cherniss, the community hopes for a bright future filled with progress and collaboration.

For those looking to catch up on the latest happenings in education, stay tuned as the Beverly Hills Unified School District enters this new era under the leadership of Dr. Alex Cherniss.