Hollister R-V School District announces leadership changes for the 2025-2026 school year

The Hollister R-V School District is excited to announce several leadership transitions that will take effect on July 1, 2025. These changes are part of the district’s long-term vision to continue building on the success of recent years and to maintain its focus on academic excellence and community engagement.

Dr. Sean Woods, currently Assistant Superintendent of District Operations, will assume the role of Superintendent following the retirement of Dr. Brian Wilson on June 30, 2025. Dr. Woods has been a key figure in district operations and planning, ensuring a seamless transition and continued growth for Hollister schools.

Joining Dr. Woods in district leadership is Dr. Jared Terry, who will step into the role of Assistant Superintendent of District Operations. Dr. Terry joined the district in 2019 as the Hollister Middle School principal and has served as the Hollister High School Principal since 2021. He has played an instrumental role in fostering academic achievement and a positive school culture. His experience and dedication will further strengthen the district's leadership team.

Mr. Mark Waugh will step into the role of Executive Director of Community Relations and Student Services, assuming responsibilities for communications from Mrs. Kim Connell, who will retire on June 30, 2025, as well as oversight of student programs and services. Mr. Waugh, currently the principal of the Hollister Early Childhood Center and Hollister Elementary School, has served the district since 2011. Mr. Waugh has a deep understanding of the Hollister community and will bring that knowledge to his new role, ensuring the district’s communications remain transparent, effective, and community-focused.

Dr. Kristina Smith will step into the role of Hollister High School Principal. Joining the district in 2013, Dr. Smith has served as the Director of Special Education Services since 2017. With a background in instructional leadership and a commitment to student success, Dr. Smith will continue the school’s legacy of academic excellence while bringing fresh ideas to support student growth and development.

Additionally, Mrs. Amy Jo Kilgore will become the new principal of the Hollister Early Childhood Center. A familiar face in the district, Mrs. Kilgore has spent the past 24 years serving Hollister and has been Mr. Waugh's assistant principal since 2019. Kilgore’s passion for early childhood education and dedication to student achievement will continue to shape the lives of the district’s youngest learners.

As part of this transition, the district will be conducting a search for both a new elementary principal and a new director of special services. These positions are crucial to maintaining the district’s strong support for student learning and specialized services, and the district is committed to finding highly qualified leaders to fill these roles.

Dr. Sean Woods, incoming Superintendent, shared his enthusiasm for the district's future: “I am honored to take on the role of superintendent and continue building on the incredible foundation laid by Dr. Wilson. Our leadership team is committed to ensuring that Hollister Schools continues to be a place where every student can succeed and every staff member feels supported. Together, we will embrace the future while staying true to the values that make us the Hollister Family.”

Board of Education President Andy Penrod also shared his optimism: “We have assembled an exceptional team of leaders who are dedicated to the district’s mission and vision. These appointments reflect our commitment to providing an outstanding educational experience for every student while preparing for the future. We are excited about the new energy and ideas they will bring, and we look forward to seeing Hollister R-V continue to thrive under their leadership.”

The Hollister R-V School District remains committed to fostering an environment where students, staff, and the community can grow and succeed together. As the district prepares for these leadership transitions, the focus will remain on student preparation and success in both college and career readiness, innovation, and maintaining a strong connection with the Hollister community.

The above press release is from the Hollister Public Schools.