Matthews Out of Running for Superintendent’s Job

By Ann K. Williams
Staff Writer

June 1 -- Interim Superintendent Dr. Michael D. Matthews – a popular choice among many Malibu parents for the District’s top post -- announced Tuesday that he has withdrawn his application for superintendent.

The former principal of Malibu High School, Matthews made the surprise announcement at a meeting with the heads of the District Advisory Committees (DACs).

Matthews told The Lookout Wednesday that, as an “insider,” he’d been watching the superintendent search criteria and the School Board’s responses closely, and came to the conclusion that the board was looking for someone with more experience for the job.

“In my mind, you don’t want to apply… if you don’t have a chance of being a finalist,” Matthews said, adding that it’s the right decision at this point in his career.

Board President Julia Brownley confirmed that Matthew’s decision was his own.

Brownley and Board member Jose Escarce both praised Matthews for the job he is doing as interim superintendent.

“We are delighted that Mike is fulfilling the interim superintendency,” Brownley said. “He’s doing a great job.”

“I believe Mike has done a really outstanding job as interim superintendent,” agreed Escarce.

But Escarce confirmed Matthews suspicion that he, at least, is looking for a more experienced superintendent.

Speaking for himself, Escarce said he’s looking for “a superintendent who has already had experience, extensive experience.

“It’s an incredibly difficult job,” Escarce added.

The superintendent search consultants are forwarding applications to the board, guided by recommendations gleaned from conversations with district staff, community members and board members.

“No one is going to be an absolutely perfect fit,” Escarce said.

For his part, Matthews looks forward to resuming his full-time duties as head of human resources when his stint as interim superintendent ends.