The Education Magazine
October 29, 2026
Grand Rapids Public Schools is preparing for a leadership change as Dr. Leadriane Roby approaches the end of her tenure as superintendent in June 2027. The district’s Board of Education has selected Dr. Allison Tingwall, an education leader from Chicago Public Schools, to succeed her. The appointment is pending contract negotiations, making Dr. Tingwall Grand Rapids Public Schools’ next superintendent once the process is finalized.
Who Is Dr. Allison Tingwall? Grand Rapids Public Schools’ Next Superintendent
Dr. Allison Tingwall has around 20 years of experience in education, spanning teaching, school administration, and district leadership. Her background includes developing school leaders, improving student outcomes, and preparing future teachers.
| Category | Details |
| Current position | Executive Director of Principal Quality at Chicago Public Schools |
| Current responsibilities | Identifying, developing, and retaining school leaders across more than 520 schools |
| Previous leadership role | Principal of Curie Metropolitan High School in Chicago |
| School leadership experience | Worked to reduce disciplinary infractions, improve freshman progress and college enrollment, and increase Advanced Placement participation |
| Early career | Literacy tutor in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood; later taught Spanish and mathematics at North Lawndale College Prep |
| Higher education experience | Adjunct lecturer at the University of Illinois Chicago, helping prepare future teachers |
| Michigan connection | Attended Dearborn Public Schools and Novi Community School District |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan; master’s in instructional leadership and doctorate in urban education leadership from the University of Illinois Chicago |
Why Did the Grand Rapids Board of Education Select Dr. Allison Tingwall as Next Superintendent of GRPS?
The Grand Rapids Board of Education selected Dr. Allison Tingwall after final interviews and stakeholder meetings on October 28, 2026. Board President José Rodriguez praised her vision for the district, saying,
“Dr. Allison Tingwall distinguished herself throughout this process with a clear vision for the future of our district.”
Dr. Tingwall was selected from two finalists, alongside Kelly Greene, GRPS’s Chief Area Instructional Leader. Both candidates toured schools, met with stakeholders, and participated in board interviews before the decision.
The nationwide search for the next Superintendent of GRPS began in February 2026, after the board extended current Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby’s contract through June 2027. The district hired Ray & Associates in April, and the search reached 2,315 individuals across all 50 states.
GRPS also gathered community input through 20 focus groups, four in-person town halls, one virtual town hall, and an online survey. This feedback helped the board identify the leadership qualities and priorities it wanted in its next superintendent.
What Will Grand Rapids Public Schools’ Next Superintendent Be Responsible For?
As Grand Rapids Public Schools’ next superintendent, Dr. Tingwall will lead a district serving more than 13,000 students and oversee its academic, operational, and financial priorities. Her key responsibilities will include:
- Academic achievement: Supporting student learning, achievement, and well-being.
- District operations and finances: Managing the district’s budget, daily operations, and resources.
- Staff leadership: Leading district employees and supporting staff recruitment and retention.
- Family and community partnerships: Working with students, families, staff, and community partners to strengthen educational opportunities.
GRPS serves families representing more than 70 languages and over 80 countries. During the GRPS’s next superintendent search, the district identified academic achievement, strong communication, financial management, and community partnerships as key leadership priorities.
Grand Rapids Public Schools’ new superintendent said,
“I look forward to working alongside scholars, families, staff, and community partners to build on the district’s strengths and expand opportunities for all learners.”
When Will Grand Rapids Public Schools’ Next Superintendent Take Office?
Dr. Allison Tingwall’s appointment as Grand Rapids Public Schools’ next superintendent remains subject to successful contract negotiations. Her official start date has not yet been confirmed. Current Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby will continue leading the district through June 30, 2027, to help ensure a smooth leadership transition.
DR. Roby welcomed the Grand Rapids Board of Education’s decision, saying she looked forward to partnering with GRPS’s next Superintendent, Dr. Tingwall, during her final year of leadership. She also emphasized continuing the district’s work for students, families, and staff.
The Grand Rapids Board of Education’s selection marks an important step in the leadership transition. The next milestone is completing contract negotiations and confirming Dr. Tingwall’s official start date.
What Happens Next in the GRPS’s Superintendent Transition?
Dr. Allison Tingwall’s selection as Grand Rapids Public Schools’ next superintendent marks the beginning of a leadership transition for the district. With contract negotiations still to be completed and her official start date yet to be confirmed, attention now turns to finalizing her appointment. Dr. Tingwall will take on the responsibility of leading a district serving more than 13,000 students as GRPS prepares for its next chapter in public education.
