(Nevada City, CA) The Nevada City School District (NCSD) Board of Trustees has appointed two interim leaders to guide the District through an upcoming leadership transition, ensuring stability and uninterrupted planning as preparations begin for the 2026–27 school year.
By unanimous vote, the Board appointed Principal Sam Schug to serve as Interim Superintendent for the district and Dean of Students Brian Ellis to serve as Interim Principal at Seven Hills. Both appointments take effect upon the official resignation of current Superintendent John Baggett, who is transitioning into his new role as Nevada County Superintendent of Schools. This timing is currently not known to the district.
The Board moved quickly and intentionally to fill these roles on an interim basis. With planning for the next school year already underway—including staffing, scheduling, budgeting, and program decisions—Trustees recognized the importance of having an interim plan in place now, rather than waiting. Appointing experienced interim leaders allows the District to keep that critical work on track without disruption to students, families, or staff. While other candidates were considered for the interim position, the board felt that Schug and Ellis were the most appropriate for the interim position.
“These are interim appointments, made with a clear sense of urgency so that our District can confidently move forward with planning for the year ahead,” said Sandra Barrington of the NCSD Board of Trustees. “Sam and Brian are trusted, capable leaders who know our students and our community well. We’re grateful they’ve stepped forward, and we’re confident our schools are in good hands during this transition.”
Sam Schug holds a Master’s Degree in educational leadership. His experience includes assistant principal, principal of a K-3and K-8 school, a special education coordinator, elementary teacher for 10 years, and he is in his tenth year as the principal at Seven Hills Middle School. Brian Ellis has 12 years of experience as the Dean of Students at Seven Hills Middle School and over 20 years of experience teaching third through eighth grade. Ellis’ experience also includes curriculum assessment leadership, and athletic leadership for several years.
The Board intends to share more information about the longer-term leadership process in the months ahead. In the meantime, both Schug and Ellis will work closely with District staff to ensure a smooth handoff and a strong start to the new school year.
The Board extends its sincere appreciation to John Bagget for his leadership and service to NCSD, and wishes him well as he begins his important new role serving schools across Nevada County.
Families with questions are warmly encouraged to reach out to Board President, Sandra Barrington at sbarrington@ncsd.k12.ca.us. We value your partnership and look forward to continuing this work together.