Media Contact:
Collin McGlashen
cmcglashen@guhsd.net
619-248-7193 (cell)
March 11, 2025
Fowler Concludes Tenure as Superintendent
Acting Superintendent Sandra C. Huezo appointed Superintendent through June 30, 2025
El Cajon, CA – Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) Governing Board President Dr. Gary C. Woods has announced that Superintendent Mike Fowler will conclude his tenure as GUHSD Superintendent after reaching a mutual agreement with the Governing Board as he continues his medical treatment. In a video message shared at the Governing Board’s March 11 regular meeting, Superintendent Fowler explained his decision:
“As many of you know, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor in late 2024. Since then, I have been on medical leave, recovering from surgery and completing treatment, with a plan to return to work on March 1. However, after discussions with my doctors and family, we’ve made the decision to pursue additional treatment. While our hearts are full of hope and we remain confident in our ultimate victory, the intensity of the next phase of treatment would in all likelihood keep me on leave well into next school year. Because of this, I have had thoughtful discussions with our Governing Board about ensuring strength, stability, and continuity for our District. With the best interests of our 16,000 students, 3,000 dedicated employees, and my own family in mind, I want to share that the Board and I have reached a mutual agreement for me to conclude my tenure as Superintendent, allowing a leadership transition for next school year.”
Dr. Woods expressed deep appreciation for Superintendent Fowler’s service and immeasurable contributions:
“Superintendent Fowler’s nearly three-decade career with the Grossmont Union High School District has profoundly shaped the lives of our students, staff, and families. On behalf of our Governing Board, I want to express our deep gratitude for his service. As he continues his courageous fight, we stand beside him and his family in full support, and we pray for his complete healing.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
Superintendent Fowler began his 29-year career in education as an English and Accounting teacher before advancing through leadership roles as Assistant Principal, Principal, and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. As Principal of Granite Hills High School from 2013-2022, he helped the school earn recognition as a California Distinguished School and achieve national rankings from U.S. News & World Report’s “Best American High Schools” and the Washington Post’s “Most Challenging High Schools” lists.
When selected as Superintendent in 2024, Mr. Fowler reflected on his decision to pursue education as his second career:
“Before I became a teacher 28 years ago, I was in the banking industry and doing well. But I had always been drawn to educational leadership because school was a safe place for me growing up. I knew firsthand that providing a safe and structured environment for students to learn and grow was a valuable community service, so I changed paths.”
Leadership Transition Plan
To ensure continuity during the transition, the Governing Board took action at its March 11 meeting to appoint Acting Superintendent Sandra C. Huezo to serve as GUHSD Superintendent through June 30, 2025. The Governing Board also approved an agreement with a recruitment firm to conduct a nationwide search for the next GUHSD Superintendent, with the goal of the new leader taking office on July 1, 2025.
Governing Board President Woods Statement on Future Leadership
“With her vast experience and steady leadership, Ms. Huezo is effectively guiding us through this challenging period, and we deeply appreciate her service. As we move forward in selecting a permanent Superintendent, we will be looking for a leader who will build on the legacy of caring and excellence established by Superintendent Mike Fowler.”
Photo: Mike Fowler
Photo: Sandra C. Huezo
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