HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. - The Huntington Beach Union High School District (HBUHSD) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Dan Bryan as the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Dr. Morgan Smith as the Director of Certificated Human Resources, pending Board approval.

Dr. Dan Bryan has served the HBUHSD community for the last 21 years, with his most recent tenure as the Director of Certificated Human Resources since 2021. Prior to this role, he was the Director of Student Services from 2015-2011, the principal of Ocean View High School from 2009-2015, and the assistant principal at Westminster High School from 2003-2009, where he oversaw supervision, activities, and guidance. Over the past two decades, Dr. Bryan’s significant contributions have made a lasting impact on the lives of students and staff alike. From the adoption of Ocean View High School’s five core values and motto “You can’t spell love without OV”, to developing an annual district-wide Military Careers and Education night and successfully implementing HBUHSD’s Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) throughout COVID-19, Dr. Bryan has helped guide and inspire innovative ideas throughout HBUHSD. In 2024, Dr. Bryan was recognized with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 17 Tracy Gaffey award as a testament to his exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment to coaching and mentoring school leaders. 

Dr. Morgan Smith brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership into his new role, having most recently served as the principal of Marina High School (MHS) from 2021 to 2024. Prior to his role at MHS, Dr. Smith served as the principal of Fountain Valley High School from 2015 to 2021. Dr. Smith has spearheaded initiatives to develop MTSS and significantly expanded Career Technical Education pathways, offering students greater opportunities for college and career readiness. His commitment to professional development earned him the ACSA California Secondary Principal of the Year award in 2022 and the National Association of Secondary School Principals California Principal of the Year in 2023.

“HBUHSD is so lucky to have two passionate leaders step into these new roles,” explained HBUHSD Deputy Superintendent of Human Resources Dr. Carolee Ogata. “Dr. Bryan’s infectious spirit and love of the district combined with his immense knowledge and unwavering commitment has guided him through his tenure and proven to be a valuable asset to students, staff, and the overall HBUHSD community. Dr. Smith has played a vital role as a principal of two of our schools over the last nine years, showcasing professionalism while emphasizing the importance of positive school culture, forward-thinking initiatives, and dedication to student success. The integrity and compassion seen throughout both Dr. Bryan’s and Dr. Smith’s tenures have proven that they will continue to inspire generations to come.”

HBUHSD is confident in the extensive experience and dedication shown by both Dr. Bryan and Dr. Smith throughout their years in the district. We look forward to the positive impacts that their visionary leadership will bring to their new roles, contributing to the ongoing success of HBUHSD.

Dr. Dan Byran

Dr. Morgan Smith