The Arizona School Administrators organization has named Kyrene Elementary School District Superintendent Laura Toenjes the 2027 Superintendent of the Year. 

This award recognizes her outstanding leadership, commitment to student achievement, and dedication to public education.

The prestigious honor recognizes one Arizona superintendent each year who demonstrates excellence in educational leadership, communication, professional development, and community engagement.

As Arizona's Superintendent of the Year, Toenjes is now a candidate for National Superintendent of the Year, which will be announced during the American Association of School Administrators National Conference on Education in February.

Under Toenjes' leadership, Kyrene developed its five-year strategic plan, Thrive! Ready for the Future, establishing measurable goals for Early Literacy, Academic Progress, Sense of Belonging and Equity. 

 "I'm honored to receive this recognition, but what makes me most proud is the work happening every day in our schools. Our students are making meaningful progress because we have a community of people who believe in their potential and are committed to helping them succeed," Toenjes said in a statement.

Toenjes has also guided Kyrene through a comprehensive, community-driven planning process to address declining enrollment and ensure the district's long-term sustainability. Her emphasis on transparency and collaboration has created new opportunities for students, families, employees and community members to participate in district decision-making, including the establishment of Kyrene's first Student Senate and several district advisory councils.

ASA selects the State Superintendent of the Year annually through a peer review process. Additional information about the award is available at azsa.org.