Mike Swize: The Rest of the Story

Why is Mike Swize really leaving PSUSD and taking pay cut?

PALM SPRINGS — As Paul Harvey used to say, “Now, for the rest of the story.” On June 26, Palm Springs Unified School District issued a polished new release stating that PSUSD Superintendent Mike Swize was stepping down to lead Perris Elementary District.

On its face, it seemed odd that Swize, who is in mid-50s and has spent his entire career in the Palm Springs education system, would abruptly leave. His resignation is effective on a date to be determined.

His current contract is not up for renewal until July of 2024, Joan L. Boiko, Coordinator of Communications & Community Outreach, told Uken Report.

In terms of numbers, the move makes little sense.

Swize’s current salary is $298,055 and PSUSD’s enrollment as of June 9 was 19,828. To lead Perris Elementary District, Swize will earn $289,426, according to the Human Resources office. That’s a 2.9% pay cut. In comparison, Perris Elementary School District serves 5,917 elementary school children, according to the district’s attendance specialist. A substantially smaller district.

He is the second Coachella Valley educator this year to take a pay cut to get a new. College of the Desert Superintendent/President Martha Garcia took a nearly 15% pay cut when she accepted the job of president and chief executive officer of Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, Calif. She lasted at COD less than two years. She knew her days at COD were numbered. did Swize?

Those who know Swize said he always projected the image of having the perfect nuclear family. In December 2022, he announced to his cabinet that he was getting a divorce.

Uken Report has learned that on Nov. 15, 2022, SWIZE&SWIZE was filed as a Family — Marriage Dissolution/Divorce lawsuit. This case was filed in Riverside County Superior Courts, Indio Larson Justice Center located in Riverside, California. The case status is Pending.

Swize’s wife, Joy Swize, works as an in PSUSD, according to her LinkedIn profile. On her Facebook page, she identifies herself as “separated.”

Swize held his position for two years, His last performance evaluation, which are considered confidential, was in October 2022, Boiko said.

Uken Report reached out to Swize for comment, explaining the questions would be “pointed and direct.” He did not respond.

Numerous attempts to obtain emails, text messages and more were blocked.

Swize was named PSUSD’s Superintendent in July of 2021. He began his career in education with PSUSD in 1990 and has served as a teacher, bilingual programs coordinator, elementary and middle school principal and director of English Learners and Elementary Curriculum, before becoming Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services in 2011.

For the rest of the story, we will be patient.