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Superintendent Mike Fowler to Take Temporary Medical Leave
Governing Board Appoints Sandra C. Huezo as Acting SuperintendentEl Cajon, CA – Superintendent Mike Fowler has announced plans to step aside from his duties until March 1, 2025, as he receives treatment for a malignant brain tumor. After his diagnosis, Fowler underwent a successful surgery in December. He has now begun a rigorous treatment schedule which will require him to remain on leave through February. As a result, the Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) Governing Board took official action during a January 16 Special Governing Board meeting to appoint Sandra C. Huezo as Acting Superintendent.
“While it is difficult for me to step aside temporarily, I am confident that this is the right course of action given the anticipated physical demands of my treatment,” Superintendent Fowler stated. “As Superintendent, my core responsibilities include providing transparent leadership and ensuring stability for our organization, especially during challenging times. Appointing an Acting Superintendent ensures continued leadership and stability for our students, staff, and families. I am grateful to the Governing Board for appointing Sandra Huezo to serve as Acting Superintendent, as her extensive educational leadership background will serve our District well. I have promised to serve as a resource to her, and I look forward to resuming my duties as Superintendent in March,” he added.
Governing Board President Dr. Gary C. Woods said, “On behalf of the entire Governing Board, I want to express our love and deep appreciation for Superintendent Fowler. His strength, resilience, and fierce commitment to this District are truly inspiring. We stand firmly by him and his family during this battle and are confident in his ultimate victory. We are also grateful to have such an outstanding and experienced educational leader in Acting Superintendent Huezo to help guide our District forward during this time. We know this will be a great partnership as we all give our absolute best each day for the students and families we serve,” he added.
The Governing Board held two Special Governing Board Meetings to explore options for appointing an Acting Superintendent. As a result, the Board appointed Ms. Huezo who served for five years as the Director of Human Resources and Associate Superintendent of Human Resources for the Poway Unified School District prior to her retirement from education in 2021. Ms. Huezo also served as the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for the Sweetwater Union High School District (SUHSD) and served as Interim Superintendent for SUHSD in 2015. Her career in education spans over three decades and includes service as Chief Human Resources Officer for the San Diego Unified School District and Director of Human Resources with SUHSD.
Superintendent Fowler also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the District community, stating, “my family and I have been deeply moved by the thoughtful notes, prayers, and encouragement we’ve received. While the road ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, our hearts are filled with hope, determination, and an unwavering expectation of victory.” He also emphasized his confidence in the District’s leadership team and staff, stating, “I have complete confidence in our District’s leadership team and staff, and I know they will continue the exceptional service that has defined our District for over 100 years.”
Photo: Mike Fowler
Photo: Sandra C. Huezo
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Grossmont Union High School District
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Collin McGlashen
- January 20, 2025
- (619) 644-8082
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