GPS extends Superintendent Shane McCord's contract

The Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board has approved a contract extension for Superintendent Shane McCord, keeping him at the district’s helm through June 30, 2027.

McCord’s current contract was set to expire June 30, 2025, but his new contract will now take effect Sept. 1.

The district plans to release the details of the contract after board members sign it at their policy meeting Aug. 20. However, board members approved it on a 4-0 vote Aug. 13 with President Sheila Uggetti absent. The vote came in a brief board business meeting after members reviewed it in executive session earlier.

Board members heaped praise on McCord before taking the vote.

Board Member Lori Wood noted the way he attracts and empowers the people around him and gave appreciation for his great work “and especially for your heart.”

“The way that you care about the students, the families your staff and teachers here, it’s evident in all that you do,” she said.

Board Clerk Chad Thompson paid attention to his transparency to the board, staff, parents and community.

“Dr. McCord does an excellent job of making himself available to anyone that has anything that is of concern and also of noteworthiness,” he said.

Board Member Jill Humpherys noted McCord is starting his eighth year on the job and said his length of service has helped the district move forward for students and staff.

“We've been able to accomplish a lot, and I look forward to what we will accomplish with a new strategic plan and going forward in the next few years,” she said.

McCord is a career educator with 29 years of experience in various settings including elementary teacher, assistant principal, principal, director, executive director and assistant superintendent.

Most of his educational career has been in Gilbert Schools serving the students, staff and community for 24 years as an educator and administrator.

McCord earned his doctorate through Northern Arizona University.

McCord was appointed superintendent in October 2017, returning to GPS after spending time in the Mesa Public Schools district.