Incoming Superintendent

Announcing New Superintendent Dr. Damon J. Wright

The Santa Clara Unified School District Board of Trustees is pleased to announce Dr. Damon J. Wright as the new Superintendent of Santa Clara Unified School District. The appointment was made at the Board of Trustees’ regular meeting on April 10, 2025. 

Dr. Wright will join SCUSD after Superintendent Dr. Gary Waddell retires in June. With over 25 years of experience in education, Dr. Wright joins SCUSD from Benicia Unified School District where he currently serves as superintendent. Please read below for more information about Dr. Wright’s background and accomplishments.

Message From Dr. Wright

“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.”

incoming 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!”

superintendent Dr. Gary Waddell