Cindy Pilar Named Superintendent of Old Adobe Union School District

Cynthia Pilar has been named superintendent of the Old Adobe Union School District, replacing Diane Zimmerman as the leader of Petaluma's second largest school district.

In 2004, Pilar established the very successful Leadership Assistance Center at the Sonoma County Office of Education and is a two-time recipient of Sonoma County’s Principal of the Year award. Serving as director of the center for the last seven years, she designed professional development and provided support for school administrators and teacher-leaders across the county.

Pilar previously held assistant superintendent positions in both the Santa Rosa and Windsor school districts, was principal of Montgomery High School, and has teaching and administrative experience at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

Pilar holds undergraduate degrees in journalism and political science from the University of Hawaii and a master’s in education from Sonoma State University.

Throughout her career, Cindy Pilar has been widely recognized for her efforts to create educational environments that ensure all students have access to rigorous learning, and she been widely recognized for her efforts. She was honored as Teacher of the Year and was recognized in 2008 as Administrator of the Year by the Sonoma County Association of School Administrators.

“Cindy Pilar was chosen to superintendent because of her ability to take organizations to the next level of achievement," said Marlene Abel, president of Old Adobe Board of Trustees. 

Abel also noted that Ms. Pilar had established a highly regarded principal coaching program and provided schools and districts with innovative and successful approaches to improving student learning.

“I am honored to join the Old Adobe Union School District,” says Pilar. “Old Adobe is a gem of a school district in a wonderful community. My commitment as superintendent is to maintain the high quality of the district and build on its successful academic and student support programs.”

Pilar fills the position previously held by Superintendent Diane Zimmerman, who retired in June after leading the district for nine years. 

The Board will formally appoint Pilar at a special board meeting at 8 am, Tuesday, July 5 at the Old Adobe District office.