LYNWOOD — A new chapter is developing in the Lynwood Unified School District following the appointment of Patrick Gittisriboongul as the district’s new superintendent.
Described as a forward-thinking leader known for transforming educational environments through innovation, equity and strategic partnerships, Gittisriboongul — who has served as the district’s assistant superintendent of technology and innovation since 2021 and as its inaugural chief technology officer from 2015 to 2018 — was appointed superintendent by the Board of Education June 5.
He will officially step into the role on July 1, succeeding Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, who is leaving to become the superintendent of the Sunnyvale School District in Northern California.
“Our board is proud to appoint a visionary leader who has already made a profound impact in Lynwood,” said school board President Julian Del Real-Calleros. “Dr. Gittis’ expertise in technology, his unwavering belief in student potential and his commitment to equity make him the right person to guide us into the future.”
Gittisriboongul has been the driving force behind efforts to expand equitable, tech-enhanced learning environments and ensure every student has access to the tools and support needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Named the 2024 Los Angeles County Cabinet Member of the Year, Gittisriboongul’s leadership has helped position Lynwood Unified as a statewide and national model for digital equity.
Through strategic partnerships and bold initiatives, Gittisriboongul has worked to expand internet access to Lynwood homes, including the launch of ONE Lynwood, a citywide fiber network created with the city of Lynwood and SiFi Networks to ensure every Lynwood student can access affordable broadband internet throughout their educational journey.
He also led the district’s Digital Equity Initiative and established an Artificial Intelligence Task Force to explore how emerging technologies can enhance student learning and workforce readiness.
Before joining Lynwood Unified, Gittisriboongul served as assistant superintendent of innovation for the San Diego County Office of Education and held key leadership positions at the Huntington Beach Union High School District and Montebello Unified School District.
“This is an incredible honor and a responsibility I hold with deep gratitude,” Gittisriboongul said. “Lynwood is filled with talented students, committed educators and a community that believes in the power of education. I am excited to continue working alongside our families, staff and partners to create transformative opportunities for every student.”
Crosthwaite has served the district as superintendent for 15 years. His leadership is credited with helping the district transform into a model of equity, innovation and student success — earning him the honor of 2023 Los Angeles County Superintendent of the Year.
“Serving the Lynwood Unified community has been the greatest honor of my career,” he said. “Together with our Board of Education, staff, families and students, we have built a culture that lifts every voice, values every learner and continually strives for better. I will carry the lessons and love from this community with me always.”
Since joining the district in 2010, Crosthwaite has spearheaded numerous groundbreaking initiatives, including securing a historic $250 million state grant to rebuild the Lynwood High School Imperial Campus, leading efforts that resulted in districtwide positive behavior interventions and supports recognitions, and obtaining a $24.5 million community schools grant to expand wraparound services and learning opportunities for students.
