​SAN JOSE, CA – Dr. David M. Toston, Sr. was appointed County Superintendent of Schools by the Santa Clara County Board of Education (SCCBOE). The appointment was made at an April 16 meeting. Toston will begin their new role on May 1. He brings 25 years of experience in education and a deep commitment to addressing inequities and transforming systems to meet the needs of all students.

“The board welcomes David Toston and looks forward to working collaboratively with him,” said Board President Maimona Afzal Berta. “He has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep dedication to fostering student success and educational excellence. We are confident that he will guide the Santa Clara County Office of Education forward with vision and purpose.”

Before his appointment in Santa Clara County, Toston served as Senior Advisor at the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence, where he led statewide initiatives focused on community engagement, equity and school improvement. His county-level leadership includes roles as Associate Superintendent at the El Dorado County Office of Education and Assistant Superintendent at the Sutter County Superintendent of Schools. In 2017, he was appointed by the State Senate to the California Advisory Commission on Special Education and, in 2020, was elected chair—becoming the first African American to hold that position.

Toston began his career in education as an eighth-grade teacher and went on to serve as a counselor, school psychologist, and special education director. His commitment to developing future educators continues through his role as an adjunct faculty member at the University of La Verne. He holds a master’s degree in school psychology from Azusa Pacific University and recently completed a doctoral degree in organizational leadership at the University of La Verne, where his research explored the distinction between inclusion and belonging in K–12 education.

“I am deeply honored to serve as Superintendent of the Santa Clara County Office of Education,” said Toston. “This role is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I look forward to partnering with our trustees, SCCOE teammates, districts, students, educators, families, and community partners. Together, we will demonstrate what is possible through the strength of our diversity—ensuring every educator is supported in preparing students to achieve the hopes and dreams of their families and communities.”

The county office will host a meet-and-greet opportunity event to welcome Superintendent Toston, providing an opportunity for staff, community members, and families to connect with the new superintendent.

The Santa Clara County Board of Education conducted a comprehensive search to identify a leader who aligns with the mission and values of the Santa Clara County Office of Education. The selection process included community input through forums and surveys. The SCCBOE worked in collaboration with Leadership and Associates to ensure a thorough and transparent process.  

For more information about the Santa Clara County Office of Education, visit www.sccoe.org and sign up for Impact Weekly at https://www.sccoe.org/newsroom/Pages/newsletters.aspx​