Superintendent Search 2026

Information for Interested Applicants

Superintendent Newark Unified School District

The Newark Unified Unified School District Board of Education is in the process of conducting an Executive Search for the District’s next Superintendent. Leadership Associates, an executive search firm, was selected to advise the Board in this important process. Announcements regarding this search will be published on this page. Please return to receive more information regarding this very important process.

At the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year, Superintendent Tracey Vackar will be retiring from the Newark Unified School District. Over the past two years, Ms. Vackar has provided strong and steady leadership, guiding the District through significant fiscal improvements and organizational restructuring efforts.

Under her leadership, the District has successfully recruited and retained a highly dedicated team of teachers, classified staff, and management employees. During her tenure, she has overseen the hiring of more than 100 teachers, 12 managers, 8 principals, and the entire executive cabinet.

For the first time in five years, Newark Unified has achieved measurable academic performance gains following the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic—a milestone that stands as a point of pride for the entire Newark community.

Ms. Vackar has also strengthened partnerships with city and county leaders, fostering collaboration that reflects the Board of Education’s vision and goals for all Newark students. She credits the success of these changes and hard decisions to the strong, collaborative working relationship between the School Board and the Superintendent, which has enabled the District to move forward with unity and shared purpose.

Her unwavering commitment, strategic leadership, and passion for student success have made her an exceptional change agent, positioning the District for continued progress under its next Superintendent of Schools.

ONLINE SURVEYS

The Board of Education is asking for your help in selecting our next superintendent. To ensure this is a collaborative and inclusive process, the Board is providing an anonymous online survey and encourages your participation. This is an opportunity to receive input from students, staff, parents, and community. Please follow the link below to provide your input.

This survey is open January 12 through January 24 until 5:00 PM.