Interim Superintendent Appointment

We are pleased to announce that the Board has appointed Mr. Richard “Rick” Schmitt as the Interim Superintendent of the Carlsbad Unified School District.

Mr. Schmitt brings over 27 years of distinguished experience in educational leadership. He retired in 2020 from his role as Superintendent of San Ramon Valley Unified School District, where he served from 2016 to 2020. During his tenure, he led a high-achieving district consisting of 36 schools, 4,000 staff members, and 32,000 TK-12 students. 

Before his time in San Ramon Valley, Mr. Schmitt dedicated thirteen years to San Dieguito Union High School District. He served as Superintendent from 2013 to 2016, Deputy Superintendent from 2012-2013, Associate Superintendent of Educational Services from 2006 to 2012, and Principal of Torrey Pines High School from 2003 to 2006. His career in educational leadership began in Coronado School District, where he served as Principal of Coronado High School from 1999 - 2003. 

Earlier in his career, Mr. Schmitt was a high school teacher of history, economics, government, and physical education as well as an athletic director. 

Board President, Kathy Rallings said, “We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Schmitt to our district while we search for a permanent replacement for Dr. Churchill.  We are confident that his extensive experience will allow him to lead with a steady hand and have a positive impact on the entire CUSD community.”

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Mr. Rick Schmitt!