Berkeley School District Superintendent Brent Stephens Steps Down

BERKELEY, CA — The city of Berkeley’s top educator is stepping down.

Superintendent Brent Stephens announced in a letter to the community that he will not seek to extend his current Berkeley Unified School District contract after this school year, meaning his role concludes June 30.

Stephens will step down a day short of what would have been the third anniversary of his July 1, 2019, appointment.

“It has been an honor to work beside so many remarkable educators, parents, community and City partners, and students. Berkeley is a singular place – smart, idealistic, passionate, and progressive – and I am deeply enriched from being by your side during this exceptional time,” Stephens wrote.

“I feel a deep sense of gratitude to the BUSD Board of Education for its partnership, expertise, and guidance during this three year period. Our Board is composed of exceptional community leaders; their thoughtful, compassionate service during the pandemic has been of such value to our community – and to me personally.”

Stephens began his teaching career as a Spanish bilingual teacher in Oakland, supporting immigrant students and their families as they entered American society in search of security, work, and a strong education, according to his Berkeley Public Schools bio.

As a teacher he would routinely visit students’ homes, offering evening English classes to parents, and became an advocate for families.

“He believes that accomplished and responsive teaching is a springboard for equity in our schools – a powerful opportunity for affirmation, mobility, and community empowerment,” his bio page said.