New School Superintendent Appointed For This Desert District

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Marcus Funchess was preparing Wednesday to take the reins as superintendent after being unanimously selected by the Palm Springs Unified School Board.

The decision came during a closed session meeting Tuesday evening.

"I am incredibly honored to serve as the next superintendent of the Palm Springs Unified School District," Funchess said in a statement. "It is a true privilege to join a forward-thinking district that proudly celebrates diversity and champions innovation."

Funchess is expected to start July 1, following the retirement of current superintendent Tony Signoret. The board will vote on Funchess' employment agreement at its June 24 meeting.

Funchess currently serves as the assistant superintendent of human resources for the San Bernardino City Unified School District.

He previously served as an elementary school principal, elementary assistant principal, elementary teacher and director of human resources, all at the SBCUSD.

Funchess holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Redlands, a master's in cross-cultural teaching from National University and a bachelor's degree from Cal State San Bernardino.

He was selected from a pool of more than 30 candidates, officials said.

"Due to his stellar reputation and demonstration of integrity, strong focus on equity for all students and history of establishing and maintaining relationships among staff and community, the board is confident that Dr. Funchess is the right person to lead us forward and advance student achievement," PSUSD Board President Sergio Espericueta said.