28 May 2009
Veteran School Administrator Robin Ryan Tapped for Position
DALLAS—The Dallas Independent School District has selected veteran school administrator Robin Ryan to replace Denise Collier, who is retiring this summer, as the new Chief Academic Officer.
With 24 years experience in education, Ryan will be vacating his position as executive director of the West Secondary Learning Community where he facilitates the implementation of Dallas ISD's Theory of Action in 38 middle and high schools serving over 29,000 students.
"Dr. Collier has done a remarkable job directing the development and implementation of the district's curriculum, and she leaves some pretty big shoes to fill," said Superintendent of Schools Michael Hinojosa. "However, I feel confident that Dr. Ryan will do an excellent job as we continue to provide a rigorous curriculum to Dallas ISD students. He has brought invaluable leadership to the district through his work as executive director of the West Secondary Learning Community, and we are lucky to have him."
"I am honored to be selected for the position of Chief Academic Officer," said Ryan. "The Board of Trustees and Dr. Hinojosa have set a clear vision for the educational plan of Dallas ISD. Dr. Collier and her staff have done a tremendous job of articulating this vision in so many ways. I look forward to continuing the work with our teachers and principals so that every child in every classroom graduates college and career ready."
Ryan, who joined the district in 2006, has served as a science teacher and middle and high school principal. In 2001, he was named Administrator of the Year by the Texas Computer Educators Association. He currently serves as a member of the district's Executive Leadership Team.
"Leadership with clear vision and positive culture can produce synergy and momentum for everyone in a school district. This begins with the superintendent and leadership team. Student by student, teacher by teacher, administrator by administrator, and out into the community, communicating an upbeat message about quality education, teamwork and excellence is a key step in the process of improving urban education," said Ryan.
Ryan spent 20 years in the Army National Guard and Reserves, retiring as a major in 2004. He earned a Doctorate of Education from the University of North Texas in Denton. He has a Master of Education from Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls and a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University at College Station.
The fifth belief adopted by the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees is: "We believe our school district must be a model for sound fiscal responsibility and integrity."
For a complete list of core beliefs, visit the Web site at http://www.dallasisd.org/about/vision.htm.