Donald English to fill open seat on Chaffey District Board

Career educator Donald English had high regards for the Chaffey Joint Union High School District long before he was selected to fill an open seat on its Board of Trustees.

“They’re really a model of excellence – for student achievement, for the culture and environment they’ve created, for continuity. Think about it: Nine superintendents in 111 years. It’s remarkable,” said English, a father of two who stepped into his role as the Chaffey District’s Area 4 trustee on December 14.

English, Director of the County Schools’ Children Deserve Success program and Executive Director of the county Gangs and Drugs Task Force, is highly regarded thr­oughout the region for his work in promoting equity, inclusion and collaboration – earning the nickname, “The Unifyer.”

A native of Pomona, English was a star football player at Ganesha High School, along with his twin brother Ron. They continued their football careers at the University of California, Berkeley – with Ron ultimately pursuing a career as a college coach. Don was less clear about his own career until he connected with long-time educator Sherman Garnett, who hired him at the Chaffey West County Community School.

English would work his way up to principal, before joining the County Superintendent of Schools office as an administrator, recognized for his leadership, dedication and commitment to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

He holds a master's degree in Educational Administration from California State University, San Bernardino, and is pursuing his Doctorate in Education from the University of Southern California.

“Don English has spent the past 28 years improving the lives of students throughout our county, and we look forward to his bringing that same passion to the Chaffey Board,” said Trustees’ President Sue Ovitt.

English said he is eager to bring his experience to the state’s second largest high school district, praising Superintendent Dr. Mathew Holton and his team for creating a culture and climate where teachers and students want to be. His own oldest son is a student at Colony High School and will be joined next year by his younger brother.

“I’m a member of the community, and I’ve seen for myself what a great organization this is,” he said.