Grand Rapids — Grand Rapids Public Schools is beginning the search for its next superintendent, and it wants the community to weigh in on the qualities its next leader should have.
GRPS recently announced that the hunt is officially underway for the successor to Superintendent Leadriane Roby, who in April announced plans to exit the district at the end of the 2026-27 school year.
As part of the process, the district will host a number of community engagement events where the public is invited to share feedback.
The following town hall meetings, with interpretation services available at each event, are scheduled:
- 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, Southwest Middle High School, 327 Rumsey St. SW, Grand Rapids
- 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12, Union High School, 1800 Tremont Blvd. NW, Grand Rapids
- 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13, Ottawa Hills High School, 2055 Rosewood Ave. SE, Grand Rapids
- 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, GRPS University, 1400 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids
GRPS Board President José Rodriguez said community engagement is a critical part of the process.
“I’m hoping that the community comes and gives their input as to what kind of leader will take us to that next level of success for GRPS,” Rodriguez told SNN. “This information, even the raw data, is really valuable. … I want folks to really buy in, and trust that we are going to use their voice in the best way possible to make the best decision possible.”
The district will also launch a survey next week to obtain additional community feedback. The survey will be available on the district’s website from Aug. 11 through Sept. 18.
The application window will be open from Sept. 1 to Oct. 4. The board of education expects to select finalists later that month, with interviews to follow. Rodriguez said the hope is that a new superintendent will be selected by late October or early November.
Roby will continue to serve as superintendent until the conclusion of her contract on June 30, 2027.
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