Sweetwater Superintendent Dr. Ed Brand has been named Superintendent of the Year by the California League of High Schools—the first time the organization has recognized superintendents in its annual awards ceremony.

The non-profit organization that provides professional growth opportunities for high school teachers and administrators chose to honor Dr. Brand’s innovation in creating a guaranteed admission program to San Diego State University for Sweetwater graduates.

“Dr. Brand is making college a reality for students who face significant educational challenges,” said Arlene LaPlante, Region 9 trustee for the California League of High Schools. “For his commitment to making lasting change for students, it is our pleasure to recognize him as our first Superintendent of the Year.”

Sweetwater superintendent since 1995, Dr. Brand has increased community involvement in South Bay’s middle schools and high schools. Through an annual Education Summit, more than 1,000 parents, students and community leaders come together each summer to hear the state of the district and upcoming achievement priorities through a general session and individual school “town hall” meetings. More than 50 business partners recently joined Dr. Brand during Principal for a Day activities, giving local executives and business owners the chance to see first hand the inner workings of district schools.

But perhaps Dr. Brand’s most lasting impact to Sweetwater education has been the guaranteed admission program with San Diego State University. Called the Compact for Success, this unique partnership with the university has reformed teaching and learning across the district. All students are given courses that prepare them for the rigors of college—and are provided the additional tutoring and support services needed for success.

In accepting his award recently aboard the William D. Evans sternwheeler, Dr. Brand praised his Board of Trustees and fellow district administrators for helping realize his vision.

“We have many exciting programs taking place every day in the Sweetwater District. It is through the commitment of our teachers, administrators and support staff that we are making a difference for students,” Brand told the audience of nearly 200 local educators. “Economic times may be tough in California, but our worst day is better than the best day for many people around the world.”

In addition to the Superintendent of the Year award that evening, Dr. Brand received an additional 11 commendations from elected officials throughout the state and nation.