The Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board has officially commenced its search for a new district superintendent following the significant announcement by Dr. Shane McCord that he will retire after the 2025-26 school year. This pivotal decision marks the conclusion of an impactful eight-year tenure for Dr. McCord at the helm of one of Arizona’s largest and most highly-regarded school systems, initiating a crucial transition period for the Gilbert Public Schools community.

Dr. McCord’s upcoming retirement comes surprisingly, especially considering that the board had just last year granted him a three-year contract extension, initially set to expire on June 30, 2027. His departure follows a similar announcement from Chandler Unified Superintendent Frank Narducci, indicating a notable shift in Arizona education leadership within the region.

With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in public education, the majority of Dr. McCord’s professional life has been dedicated to Gilbert Public Schools. He ascended through various critical roles within the district, demonstrating a deep commitment and understanding of its operations, from his early days as a teacher to roles as principal, HR director, and assistant superintendent, before assuming the top superintendent retirement position in 2017.

A proud native Arizonan, McCord’s foundational journey in education began after graduating from Mesa High School and earning his bachelor’s degree in education from Arizona State University. His dedication to student success was evident from his initial teaching post in GPS, where he consistently advanced through the school administration ranks.

Notably, Dr. McCord briefly left the district in 2014 to serve as executive director of college and career readiness at Mesa Public Schools, where he later became assistant superintendent until 2017. His subsequent return to GPS as superintendent underscored his profound connection and commitment to the district, continuing to shape its future.

The district leadership has consistently praised Dr. McCord’s work, most recently highlighted by the unanimous approval of his yearly performance bonus during a June board meeting. Board members expressed immense gratitude and admiration for his transformative contributions, underscoring the positive impact he has had on the district’s progress and achievements during his tenure.

Board member Jill Humpherys lauded his efforts, stating her impressive view of the collective accomplishments under his guidance, emphasizing his crucial role as the team leader. Similarly, Board Clerk Dr. Blake Robison acknowledged the “great strides in several areas” the district has made, further echoing the sentiment of progress. Board President Chad Thompson highlighted the immense scale of the superintendent’s position and deemed McCord’s bonus “well-deserved,” recognizing him for setting high standards for the district’s school administration.

Under Dr. McCord’s leadership, Gilbert Public Schools has thrived, maintaining its prestigious “A” rating from the state Department of Education, with all 39 schools achieving either an “A” or “B” rating. Furthermore, GPS was recently honored as an “Innovative District” by the Center for Model Schools—one of only nine in the U.S. and the sole district in Arizona—a testament to its unwavering dedication to fostering learning environments where every student can excel and its commitment to continuous improvement, exemplifying exceptional district leadership.