Big Bear, CA, December 10, 2015 – At a regular board meeting held on December 9, 2015, the Governing Board of Bear Valley Unified School District employed Dr. Mary Suzuki, as Superintendent of Schools for the District. The Board’s action was by unanimous vote. Dr. Suzuki’s selection was the culmination of an extensive nationwide search conducted by the Governing Board and assisted by Leadership Associates. Dr. Suzuki comes to Bear Valley with 24 years of experience as an educator. She has served as a teacher at multiple grade levels, literacy coach, principal, Director of Curriculum and 21st Century Learning, chairperson for the California Technology Assistance Project, and Assistant Superintendent of Learning Support Services. After extensive paper screening, reference checks and interviews, representatives of the Governing Board visited the community of Covina, where Dr. Suzuki has served as Director of 21st Century Learning. They interviewed community members, parents, teachers, students, principals, district administrators, school staff, and board members. The visitation team consistently heard high praise and accolades regarding Dr. Suzuki and felt that she is an excellent match for the Bear Valley community.
Dr. Suzuki shared, “I am thrilled and honored to be selected to serve as Superintendent in the Bear Valley Unified School District. I have tremendous respect for the outstanding work being done on behalf of the students in Bear Valley, and I look forward to working closely with the Board, staff, parents, and community to ensure Bear Valley Unified School District continues to be a world class school district where students get a premier education.” Dr. Suzuki will take the helm of the District effective January 4, 2016. A reception to welcome Mary to the community has been scheduled for Wednesday, January 20, 2016, 5:00 p.m. at Big Bear Middle School.
