KING CITY — South Monterey County Joint Union High School District has announced that Jordan Mulder will serve as permanent superintendent for a three-year term, beginning Feb. 1.
After conducting a search for a permanent superintendent, the district’s Board of Trustees met Jan. 26 and selected Mulder, who emerged as the top candidate.
Mulder has served the district in a number of different capacities since being hired in 2018 as its director of special education. He held that position until May 2021, when the district asked him to serve as interim superintendent, following the resignation of former Superintendent Brian Walker.
“As Interim Superintendent, Dr. Mulder brought stability to the District,” according to the district’s announcement Friday. “… The Board is confident that Dr. Mulder will distinguish himself in his new role as District Superintendent.”
Mulder’s contract, which runs through June 30, 2025, includes an annual salary of $202,275, along with a $100 monthly cell phone stipend, $500 monthly automobile stipend for travel within Monterey County and other benefits.
The district will also pay for his membership for King City and Greenfield Rotary Clubs and cover membership dues in the Association of California School Administrators and other professional organizations of his choice.
South Monterey County Joint Union High School District includes both King City and Greenfield high schools, as well as Portola-Butler Continuation High School and Pinnacle Coastal Valley High School.
“I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to serve as the permanent superintendent,” Mulder said. “I do not take this responsibility lightly. My primary focus is to improve our student outcomes.”
Student achievement, especially in math, is at the top of Mulder’s list. Other areas of priority are school climate, including student wellness and safety, and college and career readiness.
“I want our students to leave high school better prepared for their future,” he added. “There are many contributing factors to see this come to fruition and it will take a concerted effort of all school employees, students, parents and our communities. I look forward to this endeavor and I am optimistic about the direction of our district.”
