OXNARD : School Official to Stress Improvement

Richard Duarte, who will become the Oxnard School District’s assistant superintendent in June, said he plans to canvas the community in search of ideas to improve the city’s schools.

The district’s trustees selected Duarte on Wednesday to fill the position that will be vacated by Bernard Korenstein, who will become superintendent in June.

Duarte, 49, began his career in 1973 teaching the sixth grade at Curren School.

In his 20 years with the district, he has served as a teacher, learning director and as principal of three of the district’s schools.

Supt. Norman Brekke said he believes Duarte is well-qualified to serve as assistant superintendent for educational services.

“He knows our district inside and out,” Brekke said after Duarte’s selection was announced Wednesday. “I think he and Dr. Korenstein will make an excellent team.”

School officials said Duarte’s selection may help improve the district’s standing among Latino residents, who have long requested greater control over their schools.

“I hope I can help the district reach out to the entire community,” Duarte said.

“The fact that I speak Spanish and I am involved in the Hispanic community certainly enhances what I bring to the job.”