Choate lines up successor for helm of FUESD

Traveling from school to school, classroom to classroom, Fallbrook Union Elementary School District (FUESD) Superintendent Mike Choate introduced — or reintroduced — the district to Dr. Janice Schultz. It is likely Schultz will step into Choate’s position when he retires in September of 2006, assuming all goes well.

In the meantime, Schultz will be filling the role as assistant superintendent for the district beginning July 5. The tour occurred May 25 to familiarize her with employees of the district and the facilities.

Choate’s retirement has been known among school district officials for some time now. With Assistant Superintendent Dr. Connie Fish’s retirement looming, the FUESD board wanted to be well prepared for the transitions it was about to experience, said Choate.

Schultz is no stranger to the district; 17 years ago she was on staff at San Onofre. She is coming from the role as assistant superintendent in the elementary school district of Torrance, CA.

While it is intended, the promotion to superintendent is not a guarantee. FUESD will use the next year to closely analyze Schultz’s performance to ensure that she will be a good replacement.

“This is a great opportunity for a seamless transaction,” said Schultz. She said she ‘is looking forward to becoming a part of the smaller district with a strong sense of community.’