On November 16, 2023, the Eureka City Schools (ECS) Board of Education appointed Gary Storts as the new Superintendent for Eureka City Schools. In August 2023, the Board commenced an extensive search and recruitment process for the Superintendent position and received application packets from many qualified applicants across the State of California and other parts of the Country. Ultimately, the Board determined Storts to be the best candidate for the position.
Storts, who has been serving as the District’s Assistant Superintendent of Education Services since November 2021, expressed his gratitude for the appointment, saying, “I feel extremely blessed to be able to give back to the community who helped shape me into the person I am today. Serving as the Superintendent of Eureka City Schools is both an honor and a responsibility that I take very seriously.”
“We are excited that Gary has accepted the role of Superintendent, a position he is extremely qualified for and passionate about,” stated the Board President, Mike Duncan. “The selection process for this critical role has been thorough and thoughtful, reflecting the board’s commitment to finding the right leader to build upon our district’s successes. We believe Gary is the right leader for Eureka City Schools.”
As the newly appointed Superintendent, Gary Storts has outlined his top priorities, emphasizing a strong focus on early literacy, creating a sense of belonging on campus, and preparing students for future success in the workforce.
Storts remarked, “Investing in early literacy is fundamental to building a strong foundation for our students. Additionally, I am dedicated to fostering an environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and is celebrated for their unique strengths. We aim to create an inclusive community that nurtures the potential of each individual.”
Recognizing the importance of preparing students for the future of work, Storts highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to education. “Our students deserve a well-rounded education that not only imparts academic knowledge but also equips them with the skills and mindset necessary for success in the rapidly evolving world. We are committed to providing a learning experience that prepares our students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Eureka City Schools looks forward to the positive impact Gary Storts will bring to the District and the community. His leadership, combined with a deep understanding of the local context and a passion for education, is poised to elevate the educational experience for all students in Eureka.
Van Vleck. | File photo by Andrew Goff.
The Board of Education also extends sincere appreciation to Dr. Fred Van Vleck for his leadership and dedicated service as the Superintendent of Eureka City Schools for the last 12 years. In June 2023, Dr. Van Vleck advised the Board that he would be leaving the superintendent position in January 2024. Dr. Van Vleck’s unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and community has left an indelible mark on our District.
As we transition to this new chapter, we remain steadfast in our dedication to providing the highest quality education to the students of Eureka City Schools. Our commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and academically enriching environment will continue to guide our actions and decisions.
The ECS Board of Education expresses its deepest gratitude to Dr. Van Vleck and extends a warm welcome to our new Superintendent Gary Storts, who will assume the role of Superintendent in January 2024. We look forward to the continued growth and success of Eureka City Schools under the leadership of Superintendent Storts.
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