Karissa Adams Appointed as Provisional Member of SPUSD Board of Education

The SPUSD Board of Education yesterday voted unanimously to appoint Karissa Adams as its new provisional member, filling an opening left by Dr. Suzie Abajian when she resigned from the board last month as a result of a relocation. The Board received 11 applications (nine of which were complete) and interviewed nine candidates for the position.

“We received applications from an extraordinary group of diverse candidates,” said Board President Dr. Ruby Kalra. “Karissa’s broad knowledge of all five schools, commitment to volunteerism, deep understanding of South Pasadena Unified students, teachers and parents, and her ability to dive right in and to work collaboratively with our existing board members were the qualities that stood out to the Board as we made this decision.”

Adams grew up in San Diego where she attended public schools. She graduated from Boston University and worked in a research laboratory at Harvard Medical school before she and her husband moved to South Pasadena in 2007. The couple’s three children currently attend South Pasadena schools. During her time in South Pasadena, Adams has served as Arroyo Vista PTA president and South Pasadena Council PTA president. Adams also is part of the SPMS and SPHS Booster Clubs, volunteers with the South Pasadena Little League as the Softball Commissioner, and serves as a local Girl Scout leader. She will join the Board at its next meeting on December 14, 2021.

About South Pasadena Unified School District

Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,800 students within five schools including three elementary schools, one middle school and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California. Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation for providing high quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state and national level. The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs and booster clubs.

For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, scarroll@spusd.net.