The Saugus Union School District is at a critical juncture as it grapples with community dissatisfaction and leadership changes. Superintendent Colleen Hawkins announced her retirement, effective next year, prompting hopes for a new direction that can address ongoing issues within the district.
Concerns regarding student behavior have dominated discussions among parents, teachers, and staff across the district’s 15 schools. Many have voiced frustrations to the school board, recounting experiences of disruptive behavior that remains unaddressed. Despite repeated appeals, the district’s response has often been limited to the formation of committees, which have yet to yield tangible solutions to the issues at hand.
Another pressing concern involves the fate of the former Santa Clarita Elementary School, which closed in 2024 due to the high costs associated with retrofitting the facility to meet seismic standards. While the district has complied with state regulations by establishing a committee and conducting public meetings, community sentiment strongly opposes any high-density residential development on the site. The city of Santa Clarita has expressed interest in acquiring the property for community benefit, further complicating the district’s decision-making process.
Tensions have heightened as city leaders perceive a lack of engagement from the district. This week, the school board held a closed session to discuss proposals from a residential developer, raising questions about priority. Many in the community are puzzled as to why a developer’s proposal is progressing while the city’s request for a beneficial public use appears to be sidelined.
The manner in which the residential proposal was added to the agenda—without prior notification to local media—has only fueled suspicions of a disconnect between the school district and the community. Trust has eroded, with many feeling uncertain about the district’s transparency and commitment to community interests.
The Saugus Union School District now faces the urgent task of identifying a new superintendent who can restore faith and promote open dialogue with all stakeholders. The district must prioritize effective communication and proactive measures to address behavioral issues and foster a collaborative environment.
As Colleen Hawkins prepares to depart, the district stands at a crossroads. Effective change is imperative, and the community hopes for a new leader who will prioritize transparency and responsiveness to the needs of students, parents, and educators alike. The importance of this transition cannot be overstated; the future of the Saugus district hinges on the ability to build trust and implement meaningful solutions.
