Livermore Superintendent Leaves Abruptly In Mutual Separation Agreement

Dr. Torie Gibson's contract was set to run through 2029, but both parties agreed to end it early.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees and Superintendent Dr. Torie Gibson have mutually agreed to part ways, with Gibson's last day being this past Friday. Gibson will receive a severance package equal to 12 months of her base salary, totaling $364,000, as well as 12 months of health insurance benefits.

Why it matters

Gibson's sudden departure comes amid controversy over plans to cut $16.3 million from the district's budget, which initially included proposals to close two elementary schools. The Livermore Education Association had planned to present a Vote of No Confidence in the superintendent at an upcoming school board meeting.

The details

According to a separation agreement shared by the district, both parties agreed to end Gibson's contract early, which was originally set to run until June 2029. In addition to the severance package, the agreement allows the district to provide a positive reference for Gibson and includes a mutual release of claims related to the separation.

  • Gibson's last day was this past Friday, February 10, 2026.
  • The LVJUSD Board of Trustees will meet on Tuesday to name an interim superintendent.

The players

Dr. Torie Gibson

The former superintendent of the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District, whose contract was set to run through 2029 but was mutually ended early.

Steven Drouin

The president of the LVJUSD Board of Trustees, who accused Gibson of seeking 'minimal input' in the process of proposing $16.3 million in budget cuts.

Livermore Education Association

The union representing teachers in the Livermore school district, which said its members were 'relieved' to learn of Gibson's departure and had planned to present a Vote of No Confidence in the superintendent.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The LVJUSD Board of Trustees will meet on Tuesday to name an interim superintendent to lead the district until a permanent replacement for Dr. Gibson can be found.

The takeaway

The abrupt departure of Superintendent Dr. Torie Gibson amid budget cut controversies highlights the challenges facing school districts in balancing fiscal responsibility with community priorities. The Livermore community will be closely watching the board's next steps in selecting new leadership to guide the district forward.