New St. Helena USD Superintendent Finds Welcome In Napa Valley

NAPA VALLEY, CA — Former Temecula Valley Unified School District Superintendent Jodie McClay, Ph.D, is settling into her new home in Napa Valley as superintendent of the St. Helena Unified School District.

In May 2023, McClay was dismissed by the school board, who at the same meeting, narrowly voted to remove a textbook that mentions gay rights and history from a kindergarten through fifth-grade social studies program they considered "morally objectionable." Many parents have wondered where the former superintendent landed and how she has been faring since leaving the district.

After over 30 years as a Southern California educator and administrator and a brief stint at the Riverside County Office of Education, McClay accepted the position with St. Helena Unified School District for its "small size, strong programs, financial stability," and $292,510 annual salary, according to the Press Democrat. The Napa Valley-area district is described as a "well-funded but evolving district" of over 1,000 students.

In a statement from the district, the board said that ultimately, "Dr. McClay stood out for her reputation of exceptionalism. The Board is committed to high standards for our students' education. Dr. McClay’s focus on engagement and mentoring district teams has resulted in elevated levels of student engagement and educational outcomes, as evidenced by her accolades and awards.

"Her ability to build trust and create unity of purpose across the TK-12 spectrum is another career trademark. Finally, Dr. McClay’s hands-on experience leading multiple schools through professional learning communities for the past fifteen years," they said.

According to the district, "Dr. McClay considers her inclusive style an asset for the role. She has said that she hopes that her grandchildren will attend school within her new district, and would consider that part of her ongoing success.

“I am incredibly honored and humbled to join the SHUSD team," she said when she accepted the position. "I look forward to partnering with the Board, staff, students, and families to build upon the District’s reputation of opportunity and excellence.”