(PLEASANTON, CA) - The Pleasanton Unified School District (PUSD) convened its first regular board meeting for the 2026-27 school year on August 13, ushering in a new academic year marked by key leadership appointments, strategic planning updates, and focused community engagement.
Ed Diolazo, the Deputy Superintendent of Educational Services, attended the meeting on behalf of the absent Superintendent Dr. Maurice Ghysels due to illness.
The board then moved to the unanimous approval of four key appointments. Katie Krauss was appointed as the new Director for Child Nutrition Services. Upon her appointment, Krauss expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this capacity. She emphasized that child nutrition extends beyond providing meals; it is about ensuring every student receives the nourishment and support necessary to thrive academically and personally.
“I want our department to be known for its excellent service, teamwork, innovation, and most importantly, putting our children first,” Krauss said.
Photo Credit: Tri-Valley TV / Katie Krauss
Next, the board unanimously approved the appointment of Greg Dankwardt as Vice Principal at Harvest Park Middle School. Dankwardt, who has been part of the PUSD community for 20 years, including 18 at Harvest Park, shared his excitement and gratitude for the trust placed in him.
“Throughout those years, every colleague has been dedicated to the students and their successes,” Dankwardt said. “From our administration team, counseling team, office staff, paraprofessionals, yard supervisors, custodians, and more- the energy every day is phenomenal.”
Photo Credit: Tri-Valley TV / Greg Dankwardt
Following that, Tessy Gonzalez was unanimously appointed as Coordinator III of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. Gonzalez, with extensive experience as a teacher and administrator within the district, highlighted her commitment to supporting educators and schools, utilizing data effectively to enhance student learning outcomes.
Photo Credit: Tri-Valley TV / Tessy Gonzalez
The fourth appointment was of Senay Yuncuoglu, also known as Miss Y, for Vice Principal of the Pleasanton Adult and Career Education Center. Yukungloo shared her personal journey as an immigrant and English learner who started at the adult school and was inspired by dedicated mentors. She detailed her passion for supporting newcomers and adult learners, emphasizing the importance of offering second chances and fostering success through programs such as ESL and adults with disabilities.
Photo Credit: Tri-Valley TV / Senay Yuncuoglu
“I've never stopped believing in the newcomers to our country- I had also started my journey 25 years ago as a newcomer and English learner,” Yuncuoglu said. “I started at the adult school learning English- creating my own community with the correct teachers.”
Lastly, Deputy Superintendent Ed Diolazo delivered the superintendent’s report, reflecting on what he described as an energetic first day of school across the district. Dioazo said he and Trustee Mary Jo Carrion visited 10 campuses and recognized the work of district employees who spent the summer preparing classrooms, curriculum, and enrollment systems for the new school year.
He also thanked student services teams and other staff who helped register and enroll students, particularly those who experienced difficulties accessing online systems.
Diolazo also recognized the district’s newly appointed management team and highlighted community involvement in shaping the district’s strategic plan. He pointed to a recent leadership symposium focused on culture, collaboration, and belonging, as well as major facilities projects funded through $250 million in bond measures, including improvements to the Amador Theater and pool, new TK classrooms, and upgraded athletic fields.
"The projects represent the largest facilities investment in Pleasanton’s history," Diolazo said.
He concluded by noting that while the district’s financial position has improved, officials must continue to manage resources carefully.
To add to or correct any information in this report, please email me at yashi.s@lead4earth.org or leave a comment below.
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