Quick look: Fullerton School District Superintendent Dr. Bob Pletka has announced he will retire on Feb. 1, 2026, after more than 13 years leading the district. During his tenure, FSD expanded technology access, introduced new instructional programs and launched initiatives ranging from dual language immersion to student-built Tiny Homes.
Superintendent Dr. Robert “Bob” Pletka, who has led the Fullerton School District for more than 13 years, has announced his plans to retire on Feb. 1.
In a message to families, staff and community members, he described his time in the role as “one of the greatest honors of my life.”
“This district is so much more than a system of schools — it’s a true community, woven together by people who care deeply about children and one another,” he said.
Known locally as “Dr. Bob,” Pletka joined Fullerton in 2012. During his tenure, the district has expanded access to technology, advanced personalized learning and launched new instructional programs. FSD Board of Trustees President Beverly Berryman said Pletka strengthened the district through innovation, an unwavering belief in students and his ability to connect with people.
“Many superintendents have vision and leadership,” Berryman said, “but Pletka has a true heart and compassion for all students, committing himself to doing all he can to provide them with the best educational experiences and opportunities possible because he knows that is what every child deserves.”
Programs and initiatives
During Pletka’s tenure, the district launched programs that include a speech and debate team with six consecutive national championships, the Rising Stars mentorship initiative, and the Tiny Home Project, in which eighth graders have built two homes now serving local families.
The district also established dual language immersion academies in Spanish and Korean and created middle college and Advanced Placement opportunities that allow junior high students to earn college credit.
“These innovations reflect Dr. Pletka’s vision of helping students discover their passions and realize that it’s never too early to dream big,” the district shared in a news release on Friday.
The road to Fullerton
Pletka began his career more than 35 years ago as a teacher in the Lake Elsinore Unified School District. He later served as director of instruction and technology in the Covina-Valley Unified School District, associate superintendent at Vista Unified and superintendent of the El Centro Elementary School District.
He is the author of “Educating the Net Generation: How to Engage Students in the 21st Century” and “My So-Called Digital Life.”
He earned his doctorate from the joint program at UC Irvine and Cal Poly Pomona, his master’s degree in educational technology from National University and his bachelor’s degree in communications from Cal State San Bernardino.
‘Deep appreciation‘
As he prepares for retirement, Pletka said he looks forward to spending more time with his wife Katie, their six children and grandchildren.
“I leave this role with deep appreciation — and deep peace — knowing that the Fullerton community will continue to care fiercely for its children and for each other,” he said.
Pletka will continue to lead the Fullerton School District through January 2026. The Board of Education will begin the process of selecting the district’s next superintendent in the coming months.