Quick look: The Fullerton School District has named Dr. Gretchen Janson as its next superintendent. Currently the assistant superintendent of business services for the Lynwood Unified School District, Janson starts July 1.
The Fullerton School District has appointed Dr. Gretchen Janson as its next superintendent, marking a leadership transition for the North Orange County district.
Janson, who currently serves as assistant superintendent of business services for the Lynwood Unified School District, was selected by a unanimous vote of the district’s Board of Trustees during its April 14 meeting. She begins her new job on July 1.
“While I come into this role with nearly 30 years of experience, I also come with humility,” Janson said in a news release. “I know there is much for me to learn — about this community, its traditions and what makes Fullerton so special.”
“I am committed to listening, to building relationships and to ensuring that our decisions always center on what is best for students,” she added. “Together, I believe we can continue to foster innovative opportunities, inspire students and build an even brighter future for Fullerton.”
Janson brings nearly three decades of experience in public education, spanning both instructional and administrative roles. She began her career as a classroom teacher before serving as an instructional coach, assistant principal and principal in the Hawthorne School District.
She later held leadership positions in the Lawndale Elementary School District, including director of teaching and learning and deputy superintendent of business services. In those roles, she oversaw curriculum and instruction while also supporting districtwide operations.
Most recently, in Lynwood Unified, Janson helped align fiscal strategy with student-centered priorities. Her work has included overseeing a $250 million classroom reconstruction project, supporting employee salary increases and contributing to efforts to reduce the district’s budget deficit.
A collaborative approach
Founded in 1888, the Fullerton School District serves approximately 11,420 students in grades K–8 across 20 campuses in a 26-square-mile area.
Janson’s appointment follows a search conducted by Leadership Associates, an executive search firm. District officials cited her combination of instructional expertise and financial leadership, as well as her collaborative approach, as key factors in her selection.
“Dr. Janson brings strong instructional leadership and valuable experience in navigating complex financial challenges,” Board President Ruthi Hanchett said. “We are confident in her ability to support continued success for our students, staff and community.”
Bilingual in Spanish and English, Janson holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Southern California. She also has a master’s degree from Pepperdine University.
She succeeds Dr. Robert “Bob” Pletka, who retired on Feb. 1 after more than 13 years as superintendent. Dr. Chad Hammitt continues to serve as interim superintendent.