SAN DIEGO—The Poway Unified School District is pleased to announce the appointment of two new Directors for the 2026–27 school year.
Gene Nelson has served in the Poway Unified School District since 2006 and most recently held the position of Assistant Director of Information Technology. With nearly two decades of district leadership experience and extensive expertise in educational technology, cybersecurity, data governance, and systems integration, Mr. Nelson has played a key role in advancing technology initiatives that support teaching, learning, and district operations. A collaborative and innovative leader, Mr. Nelson is committed to leveraging technology to enhance student achievement, strengthen operational efficiency, safeguard sensitive data, and ensure equitable access to the tools and resources that support teaching and learning.
Jane Kennington most recently served as Executive Director of the Personnel Commission for the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District, where she led the establishment of the Personnel Commission for a newly created Merit System district. With more than 20 years of human resources experience, including 12 years specializing in California public sector human resources and nearly eight years in Merit System environments, Ms. Kennington brings extensive expertise in personnel administration, employee relations, classification and compensation, recruitment, and Education Code compliance. A collaborative and student-centered leader, she is dedicated to fostering inclusive workplace cultures, supporting employee growth and success, and ensuring personnel systems operate with integrity, transparency, and fairness.