01 Oct West County School Chief Retires, Effective in December

West Contra Costa Unified School District Superintendent Kenneth C. Hurst, Sr. Ed.D speaks during an event. Hurst has announced his decision to retire in December. (WCCUSD via Bay City News)

By Tony Hicks
Bay City News

West Contra Costa Unified School District Superintendent Kenneth C. Hurst will retire in December after more than three years of leading the district.

Hurst joined WCCUSD in 2021 and guided the district through the safe return to in-person learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, WCCUSD made substantial progress in improving equity, advancing student achievement, strengthening recruitment and retention efforts, and ensuring fiscal responsibility, the district said in a statement Monday.

It lauded Hurst as a key driver of initiatives that strengthened the district’s commitment to supporting students and staff.

“This decision was not easy, but it is the right one for my family,” Hurst said in a video to the WCCUSD community. “My mother-in-law is currently facing health challenges, and my wife and I feel it is important to move closer to her to provide care and support. Family and faith are at the core of who I am, and I must prioritize them at this time.”

The district commended Hurst for his leadership and dedication and said he has been an outstanding leader for the district, navigating some of the most difficult times in its history.

“His commitment to anti-racism has left a lasting legacy. While we are saddened to see him retire, we fully support his decision to prioritize his family at this time,” Board President Jamela Smith-Folds said.

The district said Hurst led significant initiatives, including the district’s equity audit, the creation of 24 Career Technical Education pathways, and key improvements in staffing and fiscal health. His leadership was instrumental in securing fiscal solvency for the district after overcoming budget and staffing challenges heightened by the pandemic, they said.

The district also lauded his strategy development and support for all students.

The district will meet Tuesday to vote on the appointment of an interim superintendent who will oversee district operations following Hurst’s retirement in December.

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