San Lorenzo Schools Superintendent Dennis Byas Announces His Retirement

From San Lorenzo Unified School District

Dr. Dennis Byas, who has led the San Lorenzo Unified School District since 2007, announced his retirement, effective August 2013.

The search for a new Superintendent will begin immediately.

“I have been honored to witness the successes that our dedicated Board, administrators and staff have created and how they have led our district to be the best we have ever been,” Byas said. “Over the years, I have learned that the most valuable asset one can have is time. It can’t be extended, it can only be spent. The time has come for me to spend valuable time with my wife, five children, four grandchildren and the rest of my family. I will always appreciate the opportunity to be but one drop in our district’s ocean of extremely talented people.”

San Lorenzo Unified significantly improved student achievement across the district over the past six years, experiencing six consecutive years of improvement in state test scores.

The district also increased attendance and college-attendance rates to all-time district highs. In addition, the district was able to significantly reduce suspensions and expulsions.

In 2012, fourteen of the district’s 18 schools reported an increase in their API (Academic Performance Index) scores and the district’s API reached an all-time high of 747.

“Dr. Byas has set the tone for the district, charting a course regardless of the winds of change, working closely with the board members in responding to competing demands by asking ‘What is best for all students?’” said Board Trustee Norm Fobert. “

Dr. Byas provided realistic leadership during difficult economic times, successfully responding to the demands of all the constituencies in the district community. He will be missed and difficult to replace.”

Under Byas’ leadership, San Lorenzo collected a long list of recognitions, achievements and distinctions as a district. Ÿ 

• The district was recognized by the State of California in 2010 as a model for boosting school attendance and reducing dropout rates. Ÿ 
• Was one of 129 districts in the state to earn the Seal of Biliteracy Award in recognition of students who have studied and attained proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation. Ÿ  
• Earned the distinction as one of 20 districts in the state to participate in the California Department of Education’s Linked Learning expansion project, which helps districts implement multiple pathways programs, increasing educational opportunities for students. Ÿ  
• Engaged in community partnerships, including the Ashland Youth Center, where the district managed the center’s educational component. Ÿ  
• Moved to the forefront of green technology with its partnership with Chevron Energy Solutions, installing solar panels at eight school sites, an initiative that saved the district $4.5 million in energy costs and earned recognition from the California State Legislature. Ÿ 
• Passed the $83 million Bond Measure O, which has led to major modernization projects at all school sites, including the construction of four new school libraries, new gymnasiums at all secondary sites, remodeled athletic fields, science classroom upgrades and digital arts facilities. 

In April, the Board of Trustees voted to refinance a portion of the school construction bond, saving local taxpayers $1.6 million. Ÿ 

A strong relationship with the district’s two KIPP Charter Schools, which are some of the most successful charter schools in Alameda County.

During his tenure in San Lorenzo, Byas received recognitions from Pete Stark and Congresswoman Barbara Lee, for outstanding community service, a Certificate of Recognition for Civic Leadership and Service in the Community, the Hayward-South Alameda County NAACP 30th-Annual Award, recognition from the Association of California School Administrators Statewide Superintendency Council, and an Outstanding Service Award as the statewide Superintendent’s Committee Chairperson.