KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Blue Valley School District announced Monday that Deputy Superintendent Dr. Tonya Merrigan will take over as superintendent when Dr. Todd White retires in July 2020.
Merrigan started in the district in 1999 as a high school guidance counselor and held a variety of positions in the district before moving into her current role as deputy superintendent.
“Being able to serve this community is an honor and a privilege that I do not take lightly. I look forward to working with our amazing teachers, principals and support staff to provide experiences for each and every student that will prepare them for life," Merrigan said in a statement.
White is retiring after 35 years with the district.
Dr. Cindy Bowling, Blue Valley Board of Education President, thanked White for his service and allowing a long transition period. White and Merrigan will spend the next 17 months preparing for the leadership change.
“Providing intentional transition time as part of the succession plan is a win-win," Bowling said. "It is a positive way for Dr. White to prepare to end his tenure with Blue Valley and Dr. Merrigan to take over the reins. It also keeps us on a consistent path and pace for important work that is underway.”
