CCUSD Superintendent Dr. Brian Lucas announces sudden retirement

In a letter sent to the Culver City Unified School District community Friday evening, CCUSD Superintendent Dr. Brian Lucas announced that he is retiring at the end of this academic school year to attend to some family matters in Florida. Superintendent Lucas began his term in January 2024.

“Although my time in CCUSD has been far shorter than I envisioned, a recent change in my family circumstances has led me to this very challenging decision,” Lucas wrote. “Due to the unexpected loss of a family member a few months ago, my heart and obligation are calling me to return to my native Florida to focus on important family matters.”

CCUSD Board President Triston Ezidore praised Lucas and thanked him for his service during his brief tenure with the district

“The Board of Education is deeply appreciative of Dr. Lucas’s leadership during his tenure with CCUSD," Ezidore said. "His steady hand helped guide our district through both challenging and transformative times."

Ezidore highlighted some of Lucas' accomplishments achieved in the short time he was at the helm at CCUSD, including the passage of Measures E and O, strengthening our administrative leadership team, and securing wellness grants to position the District for long-term sustainability.

"Dr. Lucas leaves behind a strong track record of service and impact," Ezidore said. “Although his time with us was shorter than expected, we understand and respect his difficult personal decision to step away following the recent loss of his sister... we send him our heartfelt thanks and best wishes as he begins this next chapter.”

The Board plans to immediately engage in a rigorous search process to identify a new superintendent. Ezidore announced there will be a special Board meeting on Thursday, April 24 at 5 p.m. to select a professional search firm to formally launch the superintendent recruitment process. A detailed timeline will be published next week. The Culver City community will have opportunities for input during the selection process.

Citing his admiration for the students, staff, teachers, parents and community members involved in CCUSD, Dr. Lucas concluded his letter with, “It has been an honor to serve CCUSD — an innovative and high-achieving school district in every sense.”