Santa Maria Bonita School District announces new superintendent

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - The Santa Maria-Bonita School District Board of Education has announced Dr. Darren McDuffie as the new superintendent of schools.

“I consider this a great honor and privileged to be selected as your superintendent." said McDuffie.

McDuffie came from Rialto, California where he was the deputy superintendent.

He has more than 28 years of experience in K-12 public schools.

“He’s just an all around great man and I think he’s going to be the right man for the position and I’m looking forward for him being here for quite a while.” said Santa Maria-Bonita School District Board President, Ricky Lara.

McDuffie will be replacing former superintendent, Luke Ontiveros, who retired in December after serving the district for more than five years.

Deputy Superintendent Matt Beecher will continue as acting superintendent until Dr. McDuffie begins his new position.

“I’m just here I’m ready to be apart of this community and apart of the Santa Maria Bonita family and do the best for our students because they certainly deserve it.” said the new superintendent, Darren McDuffie.

Dr. Darren McDuffie will officially begin working on July 1st.

“I was very impressed with him. Spoke really well and had a great vision for what he wants our district to be.” said Astacia Zarling, a parent of students in the district.

The school district plans to have meet and greet opportunities for students, families, staff and the community this summer.