Placentia-Yorba Linda School Board Alters Superintendent Contract

The Placentia-Yorba Linda School District board voted 3-2 to implement a supermajority requirement to fire Superintendent Alex Cherniss, making it harder for future boards to remove him. This decision comes amid concerns that it is an effort to protect Cherniss from potential changes following upcoming elections, where a conservative majority is expected to flip. The new contract rules will also apply to the deputy and assistant superintendents and remain in effect until the end of 2026. The vote faced opposition from some trustees and community members, who argued it undermines accountability and is a move that benefits a select few rather than the community. Legal challenges, including a cease and desist from the California Teachers Association, were dismissed, allowing the board to proceed with the changes. With new members set to join soon, the school board's direction may shift significantly regarding controversial policies implemented under Cherniss's leadership.