Millbrae School District names new superintendent

Hickey comes to the district with 25 years of experience in the education field. She earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of California, Los Angeles, and two master’s degrees and two credentials from Santa Clara University.

Following her studies, Hickey spent 14 years with the Cupertino Union School District starting as a teacher and advancing into a principal. Hickey went on to dedicate another 11 years to the Palo Alto Unified School District, working as an elementary and middle school principal before spending the last more than four years as director of Human Resources.

Hickey outlined her core educational beliefs during the Dec. 14 meeting, focusing on creating an enriching, inclusive environment for both students and staff to gain academic and personal growth.

“Education is not just about curriculum and standards, it’s really a people business and it’s about strong relationships,” Hickey said. “Students, educators, parents and the broader community, building strong relationships is the foundation of a thriving education environment and I’m committed to fostering an atmosphere of trust, collaboration and open communication.”

Interim Superintendent Kevin Skelly, a superintendent of the Palo Alto Unified School District while Hickey was the principal at Juana Briones Elementary School, lauded her work. Having followed Hickey’s career, Skelly said he thought of her for the permanent position as superintendent when he took on the interim role following the departure of former superintendent Debra French.

Skelly added Hickey, who was born and raised in Burlingame and has spent her entire life living in the Peninsula, has education in her blood. Her mother spent two decades as an administrator in the San Mateo-Foster City School District.

“I’ve seen your heart for kids, your respect for teachers, your sense of service,” Skelly said. “You're going to be such a great fit for this community. You’re going to learn to love it just the way I have and I think the district is in such good hands to have you here.”

Ferrario and Trustee Karen Chin similarly lauded Hickey with both noting the educator was showered in praise by her PAUSD colleagues, emphasizing Hickey’s strong listening skills, dedication, professionalism and problem-solving abilities.

Under the agreement approved Dec. 14, Hickey will earn $243,000 annually and will increase to $276,000 by July of 2026, not including her benefits package. Hickey is beginning her new role Jan. 1.

“The one line I always liked is you put the human in human resources,” Chin said, recounting what one of Hickey’s colleagues said about her. “I know this district is going to go lots of good places with you at the helm.”

sierra@smdailyjournal.com

(650) 344-5200 ext. 106