im Sellers of MUSD is retiring after 36 years with the district.
By Doug Spoon, Editor
Two longtime school district employees who supervise construction and facilities at Menifee schools are retiring this month.
Jim Sellers, director of facilities in the Menifee Union School District, is retiring after a 36-year career. He is a lifelong member of the community who attended Menifee Elementary School when it was the only elementary school in the city. He has gone on to direct the construction and maintenance of school facilities during a period of unprecedented growth.
“Initially, it was just a job –close to home with health benefits. I had just started a family,” Sellers recalled. “It was simple then.
“The students in this community were also my children’s peers. I coached many of them in youth sports. The community has been a part of my family growing up.”
Sellers served as maintenance worker I, foreman, and supervisor before becoming director of facilities in 2018.
“For 36 years, Jim did not simply maintain our schools; he helped build the foundation of our entire district,” said Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Root. “His leadership, especially in developing our long-term facilities master plan, ensures that every student and staff member has the optimal environment they need to succeed for years to come. We are grateful for his vision and dedication.”
The retirement of Hector Gonzalez was announced at Wednesday’s Perris Union High School District board meeting. Gonzalez, PUHSD’s director of facilities, is retiring after 18 years with the district.
Like Sellers, Gonzalez supervised the construction of many facilities in his district, including the opening of Liberty High School in 2022. He gave board members an update Wednesday night on one of his final projects – the renovation of Paloma Valley High School.
Gonzalez provided information and answered questions about the work being done at Paloma Valley, including construction of new auto shop and culinary facilities and relocation of the administrative offices. He was thanked by many members of the board and superintendent Jose Araux for his services.
