CARALEE OGATA, selected as new superintendent for the Huntington Beach Union High School District (HBUHSD).

Carolee Ogata has been selected as the new superintendent of schools for the Huntington Beach Union High School District.

Pending negotiations, a formal appointment will be made at the May 14, board meeting. She will succeed Superintendent Dr. Clint Harwick, effective Sept. 1, who is retiring after seven years of service in the role.

Most recently, she has served as HBUHSD’s deputy superintendent of human resources since 2012. Ogata has played a role in shaping the culture and educational accomplishments of the district, while serving students and staff alongside Superintendent Dr. Harwick. 

she had had a role in development of Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) programs, the Giving Farm, student and staff well spaces, Unified Sports and Arts, and the expansion of girls’ sports offerings through beach volleyball and flag football. 

Ogata earned her bachelor of arts in English/Speech from California State University, Long Beach, followed by a Master of Science in Education Administration from National University, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California.

“I am honored and thrilled to have the opportunity to continue the legacy of excellence within the Huntington Beach Union High School District,” said Ogata. 

“HBUHSD boasts an exceptional community of dedicated staff and high-achieving students. I have had the privilege of watching them grow and succeed over the last 12 years, and I am eager to collaborate with them to further enhance our academic, athletic, and extracurricular offerings.”

Throughout her career, she has garnered various accolades, including Teacher of the Year and the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 17 Administrator of the Year in Human Resources, underscoring her exceptional leadership and dedication to education.

The HBUHSD is a 9-12 public school system serving most of Huntington Beach and parts of Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Midway City and Westminster.