Ex-Kentucky education commissioner leaves California superintendent job after 10 months

Former Kentucky Education Commissioner Jason Glass on Friday confirmed a Los Angeles Times report that he reached a mutual agreement with the Laguna Beach Unified School District to end his contract as superintendent after just 10 months into the job.

Glass told the Herald-Leader that a joint statement issued by Glass and the Laguna Beach school board “is all I am able to say. “

In the statement, Glass and the school district said the two were in agreement to “conclude” Glass’ service at the end of this month.

“The Governing Board thanks Dr. Glass for his service and dedication to the students, staff, and families of the Laguna Beach Unified School District and wishes him well in his future endeavors,” the statement said. “Dr. Glass expresses gratitude for the opportunity to serve this exceptional community and wishes the District continued success.”

In 2023, Glass left his position as Kentucky education commissioner to become associate vice president of teaching and learning at Western Michigan University.

GOP lawmakers and politicians had urged his ouster over his inclusive LGBTQ stances and other positions in a contentious political climate.

Glass was appointed commissioner in 2020 by the Kentucky Board of Education and his four-year contract had been set to expire in September 2024.

Glass’ contract in Laguna Beach began July 1, 2025, that school district’s website said.

The Los Angeles Times reported a board majority voted in favor of terminating Glass.

The Times reported that Laguna Beach Unified Faculty Association president Scott Wittkop said the situation with Glass was not entirely unexpected but was not endorsed by the union. Closed session meetings came after Glass’ performance evaluation on Feb. 26, according to the Times.

“Wittkop said the separation agreement was not endorsed by the union and brought unease,” the Times said.