San Francisco (May 15, 2026) - The San Francisco Board of Education unanimously approved John L. Davis, Jr. as Deputy Superintendent of Educational Services of the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) at its regular meeting on May 12. Davis will assume the role on July 1.
Davis brings more than 30 years of experience leading urban school systems, including serving as Chief of Schools in Baltimore City Public Schools and Interim Chancellor and Chief of Schools of DC Public Schools, where the district led the nation in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) growth in 2013 and 2015. His experience driving academic achievement aligns closely with SFUSD’s student learning goals focused on improving third-grade literacy, eighth-grade math proficiency, and college and career readiness for all students.
“John brings deep experience leading instructional improvement in large urban school systems, with a strong track record of helping students achieve at higher levels,” said Superintendent Dr. Maria Su. “He understands the importance of strong teaching, meaningful support for schools, and partnership with families. I’m excited to work with him as we continue focusing on our student learning goals in literacy, math, and college and career readiness for every student.”
“We are excited to welcome John Davis to SFUSD,” Board of Education President Phil Kim said. “John brings a strong commitment to student success and a clear focus on supporting schools and educators. He will be a valuable partner as we continue working toward our student outcome goals and delivering the high-quality education every student deserves.”
The Deputy Superintendent oversees all aspects of teaching and learning, including schools, and school supports: Curriculum and Instruction; Research, Planning and Assessment; Special Education; African American Achievement & Leadership Initiative; and Student and Family Services. Davis is eager to hit the ground running.
“Joining SFUSD is an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to listen, learn, and build strong partnerships across San Francisco,” John Davis said. “I am looking forward to working with all of our school communities and educators in service of students and families."
SFUSD partnered with Edgility Search to conduct the nationwide search.
About SFUSD
SFUSD is the seventh largest school district in California, educating 50,000 PreK-12 students every year. San Francisco is both a city and a county; therefore, SFUSD administers both the school district and the San Francisco County Office of Education (COE). This makes SFUSD a “single district county.”
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