The Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) Tuesday evening announced the passing of former Superintendent Mike Fowler, who devoted nearly three decades of service to East County students and families.
Fowler passed away following a battle with brain cancer.
Fowler began his 29-year career in education after leaving a successful career in banking, starting as an English, accounting, entrepreneurship, and computer applications teacher at Helix Charter High School.
As principal of Granite Hills High School from 2013 to 2022, he helped guide the school to recognition as a California Distinguished School and earned national rankings from U.S. News & World Report and The Washington Post.
He then advanced through leadership roles in GUHSD as assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent of Educational Services before being named superintendent in 2024.
As superintendent, Fowler launched the Portrait of a Graduate process, a collaborative effort with the East County community to define the skills and mindsets students need to thrive as adults.
Though he could not see the vision fully realized, it remains the cornerstone of GUHSD’s work this school year.
It will reportedly be carried forward, honoring his leadership and ensuring the work he began will be seen through for future generations of students.
“Superintendent Fowler’s leadership made a profound and lasting difference in the lives of students, staff, and families,” GUHSD Governing Board President Dr. Gary Woods said. “His compassion and unwavering commitment to students defined his service and shaped our East County community. On behalf of the Governing Board, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Maria, their children, and the entire Fowler family. We grieve this loss together and honor the legacy he leaves behind.”
Reflecting on his decision to pursue education as a second career, Fowler once said:
“Before I became a teacher 28 years ago, I was in the banking industry and doing well. But I had always been drawn to educational leadership because school was a safe place for me growing up. I knew firsthand that providing a safe and structured environment for students to learn and grow was a valuable community service, so I changed paths.”
Fowler is survived by his wife, Maria Vidal-Fowler, a U.S. Army veteran and principal of Silver Gate Elementary School, and their two children.
