SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - On Sept. 27, 2022, San Juan Unified Board of Education meeting it was announced by unanimous vote that current Deputy Superintendent of Schools and Programs Melissa Bassanelli has been selected as San Juan Unified’s next superintendent of schools. She will assume the role starting Jan. 1, 2023. 

“Melissa demonstrated a deep and thoughtful understanding of the work that San Juan Unified is engaged in, combined with new ideas on how to address some of our most pressing challenges,” said Board of Education President Dr. Michael McKibbin. “Her inquiry-based style of leadership can help us evolve and reach new heights in how we provide services to students and families.” 

Bassanelli has been San Juan Unified’s deputy superintendent of schools and programs since 2019 with responsibility for the Division of Teaching and Learning. She played a key role in the development, implementation and refinement of the district’s strategic plan, Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) plan and Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER) plan. Prior to her current position, she served as the assistant superintendent of elementary and K-8 education, director of professional learning and curriculum innovation, director of extended learning and support programs, and as a vice principal and principal.