It was a packed house at Tuesday night's BCSD school board meeting, where the board officially approved Harry Doc Ervin as their new superintendent. His three year contract is worth $225,000 per year. 

Ervin addressed the board and parents for the first time, saying the children will always be his priority and that his goal is to close the achievement gap in the district.

Ervin also addressed some controversy surrounding his career when he was removed as principal from Colton High School back in 2005. Ervin said that he was doing what was best for his students.

Ervin has more than 20 years of educational experience and is fluent in Spanish.

After the approval, the district welcomed Ervin and his family with mariachi and a reception. His colleagues say the board made the right decision. Ervin’s contract begins on July first.