Gilbert Public Schools’ Governing Board unanimously confirmed Jared Ryan as the district’s next superintendent during a special meeting Friday, formally selecting the longtime district leader to succeed retiring Superintendent Shane McCord.
The board voted 5-0 to approve Ryan’s appointment for the 2026-27 school year, contingent on execution of a contract, following a monthslong search process that included community input, a national applicant pool and multiple rounds of screening.
Board President Chad Thompson said after the meeting that more than 30 candidates applied for the position, with the board ultimately narrowing the field to four finalists from across the country. While the finalists were all highly qualified, Thompson said Ryan distinguished himself through his understanding of the district and its future direction.
