“It is an honor and privilege to serve as Superintendent of Santa Clara Unified School District and to join a community deeply rooted in a shared vision and strong values centered on student success. I look forward to building meaningful relationships with our educators, students, families, and community partners as we work together to advance the district’s vision and realize the aspirations of our community. Together, through our collective strength, we will empower every student to thrive beyond their educational journey in SCUSD.”
superintendent Dr. damon j. wrighT
“The Board of Trustees was committed to identifying a Superintendent who would advance SCUSD’s vision and goals and exemplify our core values. Through extensive community engagement this winter, the board heard and joined the community in its desire for a candidate who would understand the needs of our diverse student population, establish a culture of high expectations for all students and staff, and foster a positive, professional climate of mutual trust and respect. Santa Clara Unified is an exceptional district, attracting a hiring pool of strong candidates. Dr. Wright stood out in interviews for many reasons — most notably his commitment to closing opportunity gaps for our most underserved students, his belief that there is no ceiling for growth in Santa Clara Unified, and his commitment to student and staff wellness, collaborative leadership, and inclusivity. We have every confidence in Dr. Wright and warmly welcome him to SCUSD."
Board president bonnie lieberman
“We are fortunate indeed to welcome a new Superintendent of Dr. Wright’s caliber to the SCUSD family who I know will continue to lead the district with a focus on excellence and well-being for all students, empathy and respect, equity, and partnership. It is a pleasure to hand the reins to a leader with Dr. Wright’s reputation and expertise. I know great things are in store for Santa Clara Unified School District!”
Damon J. Wright, Ed.D., serves as the Superintendent of Schools for the Benicia Unified School District. A passionate advocate for public education, Dr. Wright brings over 25 years of experience in the field, having served in a variety of roles. He began his career supporting elementary students as a guidance assistant, later serving as a school counselor and school psychologist. His leadership journey includes eight years as a school site administrator and eight years in district-level leadership.
At the district office level, Dr. Wright has held several key positions, including executive director of secondary education for Napa Valley Unified School District, senior director of human resources for Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District, and currently, superintendent of Benicia Unified School District.
Dr. Wright holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Sacramento State University, a master’s degree in school counseling from National University, and a doctorate in organizational leadership from Brandman University. He also holds pupil personnel services credentials in both school counseling and school psychology, as well as an administrative services credential. Additionally, he has completed the Pupil Services, Personnel Services, and Superintendents Academies through the Association of California School Administrators, and the Business Executives Leadership Program through the California Association of School Business Officials.
Guided by his belief that “education is the great equalizer,” Dr. Wright is deeply committed to student achievement in literacy and STEAM, and to advancing equity and social-emotional learning through holistic student support. A socially responsible leader, Dr. Wright prioritizes students in every decision. He is dedicated to building and sustaining positive relationships with the school community and industry partners, and to realizing the district’s vision by fostering trust through competence, consistency, concern, candor, and connection.
