The Goleta Union School District Board of Education announced Wednesday that it has appointed Dr. Mary Kahn, current assistant superintendent of instructional services, to be the district’s next superintendent after Dr. Diana Galindo-Roybal retires from the position in June.

According to a press release from the school district, Kahn grew up in Goleta and attended schools within the Goleta Union School District and in the area before studying at San Diego State University, receiving her master’s degree in special education from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and earning a doctorate in education leadership, with a concentration in dual language immersion from the Fielding Graduate University.

“Not only is Dr. Mary Kahn a local leader with many positive connections, but she also has a depth of knowledge, skill and experience that will add significant value to her new role as superintendent,” the release said. “Dr. Kahn has over 25 years of experience in diverse settings, from urban schools to administrative roles.”

Before becoming the assistant superintendent of instructional services for the Goleta Union School District, Kahn served as the principal of Isla Vista School.

“Having interacted with Dr. Kahn both as a parent and a board member, I’ve had the privilege of seeing her in different roles,” Trustee Dr. Vicki Ben-Yaacov said. “As the beloved principal at Isla Vista School, she introduced a data-driven approach to enhancing educational practices, later extending it to the entire district as the assistant superintendent of instructional Services. Dr. Kahn stands out as a devoted, proficient and compassionate educational leader. I am certain that our district is in capable hands with her as our newly appointed superintendent.”

Galindo-Roybal is set to retire in June after two years since she joined the school district as superintendent in 2021.

“The board is grateful for the dedicated service of Dr. Diana Galindo-Roybal as superintendent since 2021,” Trustee Ethan Bertrand said. “Dr. Galindo-Roybal has championed literacy, equity and the well-being of our students, families and staff. Our entire school community benefited from Dr. Galindo-Roybal’s dynamic leadership, especially as she led us out of the COVID-19 pandemic. We look forward to working with Dr. Galindo-Roybal through the end of the school year and wish her the very best in retirement.”

Kahn is set to begin her role as superintendent on July 1, and according to the press release, she will be collaborating with Galindo-Roybal over the next several months to “ensure a dynamic succession plan.”