John Roach has been hired as the new superintendent of the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District.
According to a district release, Roach brings decades of experience in public education to the role after a comprehensive search took place during the fall semester.
“I am very grateful for the opportunity to join a dedicated and talented team of professional educators and staff as the next superintendent of HLPUSD,” Roach said in a statement. “I look forward to building upon the strong foundation of success and opportunities available to our students and community, and collaborating with all of our partners to move the District forward with purpose, innovation and equity.”
Roach earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Idaho and later completed his master’s degree in educational administration at California State University, San Bernardino.
During his career Roach has worked as assistant superintendent of educational services, senior director of assessment, research, data analysis, educational technology, director of secondary curriculum, middle school principal and elementary school teacher.
The previous permanent superintendent Alfonso Jiménez had been in the role since 2020 and left the district in June. Jiménez is now the superintendent of the Culver City Unified School District.
The change in leadership comes after upheaval on the Board of Education which saw Board President Stephanie Serrano removed from the role while remaining on the board.
Trustees approved Roach’s appointment at the Dec. 11 Board of Education meeting.
“Everybody here on this dais sees your passion, drive, and commitment to public education,” Board president Gino Kwok said during the meeting. “We look forward to working with you in service of our students and community. The best days of our school district lay ahead under your leadership.”
