Topics / SCHOOLS : Superintendent Quickly Chosen

The Hacienda La Puente Unified School Board has bounded back quickly from the resignation of its superintendent and appointed a longtime administrator to lead the 21,762-student district.

John Kramar, 58, who previously served as assistant superintendent for business in the district, was appointed in late July to a three-year term at an annual salary of $101,500, plus use of a district car.

Kramar replaces Andrew Cazares, who resigned after 1 1/2 years on the job, reportedly to return to the Los Angeles Unified School District, where he worked for 26 years.

Through a spokesman, Cazares said he preferred not to comment on his departure. He referred questions to Hacienda La Puente board President Norman Hsu, who said Cazares left voluntarily and in good faith.

A Los Angeles school district spokesman said Cazares met with LAUSD officials last week to discuss various jobs, including a position as one of 27 “cluster” leaders with the district. Under a massive reorganization, the Los Angeles district divided its schools into 27 geographic clusters made up of elementary, junior and senior high schools.