Schools

Brand Named Sweetwater Superintendent

Brand returned to the Sweetwater Union High School District as interim superintendent this summer when former Superintendent Jesus Gandara was fired.

Dr. Edward Brand, who came out of retirement in June to become interim superintendent of the , was appointed to the position on a permanent basis by the district's Board of Education Monday.

Brand will serve as the district's superintendent for three years and previously headed up the district for 10 years.

He was hired back after his predecessor, , even though he had an $800 per month food allowance, hiring two public relations consultants without the board's knowledge and having contractors attend his daughter's bridal shower, which included a money tree.

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The district also has been in conflict over grade changes and students being charged for extracurricular activities.

"Dr. Brand has done an excellent job in bringing back the focus to students and staff in the time that he has been here," said Pearl Quinones, who was appointed president by fellow school board members at the same meeting.

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"He has a great love for this district and I am optimistic and confident that the Sweetwater District will reclaim its position as a pacesetter in providing world class education to our students," she said.

The terms of Brand's contract still need to be negotiated, according to the district.

- City News Service


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