"Thank you for this opportunity.

I look forward to working for the students, staff, and community of this

great district," Dr. Haro said. "Our goal is for every child

to have the opportunity to reach his or her full potential, and I pledge

that I will do my best to make sure that happens for all of our kids."

Dr. Haro, a graduate of the

University of California (B.A., 1972; M.A., 1973) and the University of

La Verne (Ed.D., 1991), is a veteran educator with a 20-year record of

success as a superintendent. He has served as a teacher, athletic director,

dean of students, assistant principal, and high school principal prior

to his superintendent positions.

Dr. Haro's track record of

success includes the last 10 years as superintendent of the 28,500-student

Independent School District 196 in Rosemount, Minn., which is considered

one of the premier larger school systems in the Midwest.

During his tenure, he oversaw

a rise in student achievement through improved test scores, the construction

of seven new schools, a strengthened financial status, and expanded communications

activities with staff, parents, business leaders and the community.

He also has been superintendent

of the 1,200-student Newman-Crows Landing Unified School District in Newman,

Calif., the 7,250-student Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District

in Rohnert Park, Calif., and the 20,000-student Fairfield-Suisun Unified

School District in Fairfield, Calif.

Dr. Haro's selection came after

an extensive national search. More than 70 candidates from 30 states representing

a diverse group of professional educators, business leaders and career

military personnel were considered, including 32 candidates with superintendent

experience.

Retired school system administrator

Thomas M. Payne served as interim superintendent until Dr. Haro took office.