School district superintendent to step down, board picks interim replacement
West Contra Costa Unified School District appointed Dr. Kim Moses as interim superintendent after Kenneth C. Hurst announced his retirement in December.
Hurst, who has led the district for nearly three and half years, is stepping down to focus on family responsibilities, as he shared in a video message to the community. Hurst said his mother-in-law is currently facing health issues, prompting the decision to move closer to provide care.
“Family is my top priority, and at this time, I must focus on being there for my loved ones,” Hurst said in a statement. “Faith and family have always been central to who I am, and while this decision may come as a surprise, I hope you can understand my need to prioritize my family at this time.”
Hurst expressed his pride in the district's accomplishments during his tenure, including fortifying schools, advancing equity, and navigating the intricacies of a global pandemic.
“The relationships we have built and the progress we have made together have been some of the most meaningful experiences of my life,” Hurst said. “The district is in a strong place, with a clear vision for the future. I am confident that our leadership, teachers, and staff will continue to carry forward the important work we’ve started, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.”
Board appoints interim superintendent
The WCCUSD Board voted unanimously Tuesday to appoint Moses as interim superintendent, effective December 2024. Moses, currently serving as the Associate Superintendent of Business Services, has over 30 years of experience in education, including 18 years in leadership roles within WCCUSD. She is also a district alumna, having graduated from Kennedy High School in Richmond in 1989.
“I am honored and humbled to serve in this interim role,” Moses said in a statement. “I want to thank the Board of Education for this opportunity to serve the students, families, and staff of WCCUSD in this leadership capacity. I look forward to working with our staff, labor partners, and the community to support our schools and our students during this transition.”
Moses holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, a master’s degree in urban educational leadership from UC Berkeley, and a doctorate in educational leadership from East Carolina University. She has worked as a teacher in Oakland Unified School District for 12 years and served in administrative roles in WCCUSD, including as vice principal and principal.
Board President Jamela Smith-Folds said Moses is an example of what it means for the district to grow its own leaders.
“As a former WCCUSD student, teacher, principal, and district administrator, she knows our community, understands our challenges, and is deeply committed to our students’ success. She is also committed to the antiracism vision. We are confident she will lead our district with integrity, transparency and dedication during this transitional period,” Smith-Folds said.
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