Dr. Marcus Funchess joined Palm Springs Unified School District as Superintendent of Schools on July 1, 2025. With 30 years of experience in education, Dr. Funchess spent most of his career in San Bernardino City Unified School District as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, Director of Human Resources and Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. He has a history of improving student achievement; building strong relationships with staff, parents and community members and focusing on the support of “scholars,” the title he gives to all students he serves.

Dr. Funchess grew up in Riverside, CA and earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Redlands, master’s degree in Cross-Cultural Teaching from National University and bachelor’s degree from Cal State University San Bernardino. His goals for PSUSD include implementing a strategic, future-oriented vision that places student success at the forefront; strengthening trust and transparency across the District; ensuring that every scholar and staff member feels safe, supported and valued; championing academic excellence; and closing opportunity gaps.

Dr. Funchess has been married to his wife, Celeste, for 22 years and is father to Henry, Kennedy and Kimberly. His message to scholars, families and the members of the communities we serve is “Together we will dream big, lead with purpose and create a future rooted in collaboration, trust and shared success.”  

Let’s go!