In Memoriam: Dr. Frank Wells, Superintendent

Superintendent Dr. Frank Wells passed away suddenly on March 11, 2024. Albany Unified School District is proud to have had Dr. Wells as our Superintendent of Schools from July 2019 until his passing. During a career spanning over 30 years in public education, Dr. Wells served as a teacher, principal, director, assistant superintendent, superintendent, an elected school board member, as well as school board president. He was a fierce advocate for all students, particularly students of color.

 

In Albany Unified, he led the District through the COVID-19 pandemic, re-opening classrooms as early as possible, and putting in place multiple interventions and mental health supports to help students recover from pandemic impacts.

 

Dr. Wells also championed ongoing training on Anti-Racist Teaching Practices, Universal Design for Learning and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support for AUSD staff in order to bring about culturally responsive and equity-focused teaching and learning that improves outcomes for students in the Albany Unified School District.

 

He was recognized by Congresswoman Barbara Lee with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition in 2023 for creating the equity-based Young Men of Color mentoring program at Albany High School. This program, which was expanded to include Young Women of Color, serves students of African American, African, Latinx, and underserved Asian ancestry that have been historically marginalized within our system and traditionally lack a sense of belonging in schools.

 

Dr. Wells promoted professional growth by leading with action. He revitalized the Association of California School Administrators, North Alameda County Charter Chapter, Region 6, by reestablishing and serving as president over the last two years. He was currently serving as the California Association of African American School Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASSA) President Elect, and had recently been awarded the CAAASSA Marcus Foster Distinguished Educator Award.

 

Dr. Wells brought wit, humor, and a willingness to roll up his sleeves to help wherever he was needed. He will be sorely missed, but his passion serves as an inspiration for us all.

 

 

"We do the work because this is not work for us; this is a mission and our life's calling to make a difference and make life better for each and every kid we are entrusted with."  
Frank Wells, Ed.D.,  at the February 13, 2024 AUSD Board of Education Meeting