School Board Announces Dr. Michael Milliken as New Superintendent

In one of the most anticipated announcements of the school year, the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District (BRSSD)board of trustees held their announcement of the new superintendent close to the vest until Thursday afternoon when Dr. Michael Milliken was introduced during a special board meeting.

Milliken, who will start his new position as superintendent of the district's six elementary and one middle school in July, currently serves as director of secondary education in the Palo Alto School District. Prior to that, Milliken was principal at Terman Middle School in Palo Alto. He holds a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and Ph.D. from Stanford University.

As director of secondary education in Palo Alto, Milliken oversaw the district’s three middle and two high schools.

Upon introducing Milliken, board president Robert Tashjian said the trustees had met with parents, teachers and students in the Palo Alto Unified School District during the selection process.

“They were effusive in their praise for Michael Milliken,” said Tashjian.

Milliken gave a brief welcome to the gathering in the district boardroom, saying he appreciates the trust the board and the school community has put in him.

“Know that across the Peninsula and the Bay Area, this district has a stellar reputation and I’m very pleased to be joining it,” said Milliken.

He added that he looks forward to building upon the districts foundation of strengths, including its focus 21st century learning.

“I will be committed 100 percent to the success of every student in this district,” said Milliken.

Parent Jeff Selman is pleased that the new superintendent has experience as a middle school principal. 

“We are fortunate to have somebody who knows the issues presented by a middle school. I hope this bodes well for the future,” said Selman.

Milliken says he will be visiting BRSSD school sites in the district over the next week and will be wrapping up his time in Palo Alto before over his new position on July 1.