JANUARY 30, 2026

After 39 years of dedicated service, Bo Gutzwiller (Mr. G) has announced his plans to retire, he will serve in his current role until a replacement is found. Hired in June 1987, he has been a beloved leader whose vision, faith, and commitment to excellence have shaped Foothill Christian School into the thriving community it is today.

Under his leadership, the school has experienced significant growth, including the development of the Baseline and Route 66 campuses, expanded campus safety initiatives, and the launch of key programs such as the Student Success Team (SST) and enhanced Fine Arts offerings in Theater, Orchestra, and Art. He also helped define the school’s identity through the development of the school crest, uniforms, and expanded student learning through Faith in Action immersion trips and introducing the Teaching for Transformation framework. 

Beyond FCS, Mr. G served with distinction in local, national, and international roles, including leadership within the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), a board member for the Glendora Chamber of Commerce and the Friends of the Glendora Library Foundation, international accreditation teams, and 12 years as an adjunct professor in the Azusa Pacific University Graduate School of Education.

Beloved by students, families, and staff alike, Mr. G is a central reason why Foothill Christian School is the exceptional school it is today. We are deeply grateful for his faithful leadership and lasting legacy and wish him great joy in his well-earned retirement. 

Why is Mr. G retiring? 
There comes a time when a person has to consider when to pass the mantle of leadership on to the next generation. Leadership succession is both inevitable and natural and Mr. G. and his wife, Vicky, believe that now is the time for him. Keep in mind, the Bible is full of “necessary endings” and the good thing about those endings is it always gives way to new beginnings!

How long has Mr. G been superintendent at FCS and what are some of the lasting contributions to the school? 
Mr. G has served as superintendent of FCS since June 1987... nearly four decades of leadership! His lasting contributions include major campus developments (Baseline and Route 66 campuses, gym renovations, safety initiatives), expanded academic and arts programs (fine arts, technology, SST intervention, Teaching for Transformation), strengthened student mission and immersion trips, and the creation of the school crest and uniforms. He has also built strong community and professional partnerships locally and globally, advancing accreditation, leadership development, and international engagement.

What impact will this transition have on students during the upcoming school year?
Students can expect continuity and stability during the upcoming school year. For many years, our vice principals, who know our students well and are deeply involved in campus life, will continue to be the main points of contact for student care, support, and guidance. Mr. G has provided steady leadership by focusing on long-term vision, financial stewardship, and overall staff direction, ensuring the school is well-positioned for continued success. Because of this strong leadership structure, students will continue to feel supported and cared for throughout the transition.

What is the plan for leadership during the transition period? 
Mr. G will stay at FCS until his replacement is selected. Once a new Head of School is selected Mr. G has agreed to stay on in an Emeritus role to help the new leader, as needed, make a smooth transition.

How will the school ensure continuity in its mission, values, and educational philosophy?
Our mission, values and philosophy is not determined by the Head of School. Mr. G helped shape those things but they are ultimately determined by the leadership of Foothill Church, which is not changing.

What process is being used to select the next Head of School? 
A succession team has been formed to guide a smooth transition and succession from Mr. G to the next Head of School. They will work with various stakeholders to gather input, produce a profile, and conduct a search to recommend a candidate to Pastor Chris and the leadership team. In addition, they will look for ways to honor and celebrate Mr. G for his decades of faithful service. We will keep you updated throughout the process.

For more information: Job Description

To submit an inquiry: Inquire Here

Who are the members of the succession team?

Samantha Bowser, FCS History Teacher 
Steve DuBransky, Elder Board Member & FCS Parent
Jacob Gaines, FCS Bible Teacher & FCS Parent
Jessica Graham, FCS Parent & Educator
Lauren Heminger, FCS Computer Teacher
Stephanie Martens, Foothill Church Executive Assistant & FCS Parent
Bryan Martinez, Foothill Church Student's Minister and FCS Bible Teacher
Alina Rietze, FCS Marketing Director & FCS Parent
Whitney Vallette, Foothill Church Chief of Staff & FCS Parent
Steve Wilke, FCS Grandparent & Educator

Chris Lewis, Foothill Church Lead Pastor

Will there be opportunities to celebrate and honor Mr. G and his legacy?
Absolutely. We’re planning several times throughout the summer and next school year to do just that.

Where can families and constituents find updates and additional information as the transition progresses? 
We’ve created this succession page where updates will be posted. In addition, current school families will receive periodic emails advising them of our progress and inviting them to pray with us throughout the process.