Former Goleta Union School District Superintendent William “Bill” Banning has joined the Santa Barbara Education Foundation (SBEF) Board of Directors as a Santa Barbara Unified Schools District representative.

Banning has 40 years of experience in public education. Before becoming the Goleta Union School District superintendent in 2012, he worked as a principal and assistant superintendent at two other school districts.

Even after retiring in 2017, he continued to dedicate his time to education as a member of the Santa Barbara Unified School District Board of Education.

Banning holds a master’s degree in educational administration and organizational management and bachelor’s degree in music education.

He also works as an educational leadership consultant, guiding and supporting the next generation of educational leaders.

“Public education is the foundation of a strong and equitable society,” Banning said. “It ensures that every child, regardless of background, has access to opportunity, knowledge, and the tools to succeed.

“Public schools are not just centers of learning, they are the heart of our community, shaping the future through quality education, critical thinking, and civic engagement.”

Founded in 1985, the Santa Barbara Education Foundation promotes private support of Santa Barbara’s public education system, serving nearly 12,000 students in 21 schools. For more, visit santabarbaraeducation.org.