FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LAGUNA BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
CONTACT: ANAKAREN CÁRDENAS UREÑO
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & ENGAGEMENT
(949) 497-7700 EXT. 5232 | AURENO@LBUSD.ORG

June 5, 2026

Laguna Beach Unified approves contract with Don Austin to serve as superintendent

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. – The Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education approved an employment agreement with Don Austin, Ed.D., at its June 4 meeting to serve as superintendent of schools effective July 1.

Dr. Austin brings more than 30 years of educational experience, including service as superintendent of two California school districts and prior leadership experience in Laguna Beach Unified School District.

"Dr. Austin brings extensive experience as a superintendent, a strong track record of academic excellence, educational leadership, and a deep understanding of California public education. Securing him as he transitions out of PAUSD later this month is a win for our students, staff and the community,” said Board President Sheri Morgan. “The Board of Education is pleased to welcome him back to Laguna Beach Unified and looks forward to partnering with him to support student achievement and continue the district's tradition of excellence."

Since 2018, Austin has served as superintendent of the Palo Alto Unified School District, where he oversaw districtwide efforts to expand student mental health services, secure voter approval of local funding measures, strengthen leadership development systems, and guide the district through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to Palo Alto, he served as superintendent of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District from 2014 to 2018. During his tenure, he introduced an annual community stewardship report, established administrative training programs, and oversaw technology and campus modernization projects. Earlier in his career, Austin served as assistant superintendent of educational services for the Huntington Beach Union High School District, leading instructional, special education, and assessment programs across multiple schools.

Austin's return to Laguna Beach Unified School District is both professional and personal. He served as principal of Laguna Beach High School from 2006 to 2011, and his three children attended Laguna Beach schools. During his tenure as principal, LBHS earned recognition as a California Distinguished School and National Blue Ribbon School. School initiatives also received a California School Boards Association Golden Bell Award and recognition from the College Board AP Honor Roll for supporting the success of underrepresented students.

“Since leaving Laguna Beach, I have had the privilege of leading high-performing school districts through periods of challenge, growth, and change,” Austin said. “I look forward to bringing that experience back to LBUSD while also taking the time to listen and learn from students, staff, families, and community members.”

In the coming weeks, Austin will meet with district leaders, staff, and key community partners as he prepares to assume the role. Opportunities for families and community members to meet Austin will be offered at public events scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 11, and Thursday, Aug. 13. Additional details, including times and locations, will be announced at a later date.

Austin earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Baker University.

Community members are encouraged to subscribe to It's a Wrap (www.lbusd.org/itsawrap), the district's monthly community newsletter, and follow Laguna Beach Unified School District on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram (@LagunaBeachUSD) to stay informed about district news, upcoming events, and opportunities to connect with Dr. Austin as he begins his service as superintendent. Additional information about the Aug. 11 and Aug. 13 meet-and-greet events will be shared in the coming weeks.

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