A Pleasanton school administrator has been named to a high-level post in the Palo Alto Unified School District.

Charles Young, director of secondary education in the Pleasanton Unified School District, replaces Virgina Davis, who was Palo Alto's associate superintendent for educational services before retiring in June.

The position carries broad oversight over education for Palo Alto's 12,000 students, including curriculum, testing, student services and professional development.

Pleasanton is a high-performing K-12 district with 14,500 students in nine elementary schools, three middle schools, two comprehensive high schools and one continuation high school.

Young was an elementary school principal in Pleasanton for five years before becoming director of secondary education there.

Prior to that, he was a middle school principal and high school English teacher. He holds a bachelor's degree in English and a master's in educational leadership from California State University, East Bay, as well as a doctorate in organizational leadership from the University of LaVerne in southern California.

"We are delighted to have Dr. Young join our team and fill this important position," Superintendent Kevin Skelly said.

"His broad K-12 experience will serve him well as he helps lead the educational work of our district."

— Chris Kenrick

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