Palm Springs Unified School District selects superintendent finalist
Dr. Marcus Funchess, currently serves as assistant superintendent of human resources at the San Bernardino City Unified School District, will be considered for appointment at the June 10 board meeting.
The Palm Springs Unified School District Board of Education has identified Dr. Marcus Funchess as a finalist to serve as the next superintendent of schools after reviewing more than 30 candidates.
The board will vote on Funchess’s appointment at its June 10 meeting. If approved, the board is expected to consider his employment agreement at its June 24 meeting, with a July 1 start date following Dr. Tony Signoret’s retirement on June 30.
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Funchess currently serves as assistant superintendent of human resources at the San Bernardino City Unified School District. His career in San Bernardino City Unified includes roles as director of human resources, elementary principal, elementary assistant principal and elementary school teacher.
“Funchess has an impeccable reputation for integrity, advancing equitable outcomes for all students, fostering positive labor relations, and building strong community partnerships,” said PSUSD Board President Sergio Espericueta. “All of that, combined with his enthusiasm and passion for student success, has distinguished Funchess within a highly competitive field of outstanding candidates.”
Funchess earned his doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Redlands, a master’s degree in cross-cultural teaching from National University and a bachelor’s degree from Cal State University of San Bernardino.
“From the moment I thought there was a possibility that I could be the next superintendent of PSUSD I was inspired by the opportunity,” Funchess in a news release Tuesday. “I am prepared to lead and work with the PSUSD community, as we work together to implement a strategic, future-oriented vision that places student success at the forefront. I look forward to engaging with the students, employees, and community members as we begin this crucial work together.”
The district noted that Funchess has a history of improving student achievement and building relationships with employees, parents and community members. He refers to all students he serves as scholars.
The PSUSD Board expressed appreciation to educational and community partners who contributed to focus groups and survey feedback used to develop the leadership profile for the superintendent selection process.
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