Press release from Leander ISD shared March 12, 2026

    The Leander ISD Board of Trustees named Chris Clark, Ed.D., as the lone finalist to serve as the district’s next superintendent, leading more than 42,000 students across 49 schools.
    Clark has served as acting superintendent since December 2025. He previously held the role of deputy superintendent of learning and innovation and before that was the assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction when he joined Leander ISD in 2023.
    In total, Clark brings more than 30 years of experience in public education, including more than two decades in educational leadership at the campus and district levels.
    “Leander ISD consistently focuses on doing the work that matters most—serving students well and preparing them for the future,” Clark said. “I’m honored by the Board’s consideration and look forward to continuing that work with the talented educators, staff and community members who make this district unique and important.”
    Since joining Leander ISD, Clark has worked closely with campus and district leaders to strengthen instructional systems and collaboration across the organization. His work has included leading districtwide strategies outlined in the District Improvement Plan, supporting Professional Learning Communities and Accelerated Math Pathways, and strengthening alignment between campus improvement plans and the district’s Strategic Plan and Community-Based Accountability System.
    That work reflects a leadership approach that emphasizes bringing campus and central office teams together around a shared vision for student learning, aligning district priorities and strengthening support for campuses.
    Prior to joining Leander ISD, Clark held leadership roles in Frisco ISD, McKinney ISD and Tulsa Public Schools. His career includes experience as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and district-level administrator overseeing academic programs and student supports.
    With that leadership background and experience across multiple districts, Trustees voted unanimously to name Clark as the lone finalist following a superintendent search process that included opportunities for stakeholder input, including a community survey that helped shape the leadership profile for the district’s next superintendent. 

“Our community made it clear that they value student-centered leadership, transparency and strong support for staff,” Board President Anna Smith said. “The feedback our community shared throughout this process helped guide the Board’s conversations and reflections. We believe Dr. Clark brings thoughtful decision-making, perspective and a balanced leadership approach needed to guide Leander ISD forward.”
    Through the superintendent search survey, families, staff and community members emphasized the importance of student safety and well-being, strong support for educators, responsible financial stewardship and clear communication. The Board extends its sincere appreciation to the many individuals who participated and shared thoughtful input throughout the process.
    State law requires a 21-day waiting period before the Board may vote to finalize a superintendent contract. The Board will vote on the contract in April, and Clark will continue serving as acting superintendent during that time.
    Clark assumed the acting superintendent role following the retirement announcement of Bruce Gearing,Ed.D., who served as the superintendent of Leander ISD since 2019.