Top 10 School Superintendents in Wisconsin - 2026

Dr. Dana Monogue specializes in educational leadership, student-centered learning and community engagement. As Superintendent of Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District (MCPASD), she focuses on academic excellence, innovation, staff development and meaningful connections with students, families and the community. She has co-developed Wisconsin’s Aspiring Superintendent Program. Monogue also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and coaches principals and district leaders through national and state administrator associations.

Dr. Brenda Cassellius, Superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools, draws on three decades in education and experience as Minnesota’s education commissioner and Boston’s superintendent. She now leads efforts to strengthen literacy, repair school facilities, improve financial reporting, and build public trust in a district serving approximately 65,000 students. 

Mike Johnson, Superintendent of Eau Claire Area School District, takes a hands-on approach to understanding school operations. Through his “Super Switch” initiative, he steps into staff roles to see their daily challenges firsthand. His background as an English teacher and school administrator informs his focus on instructional quality and staff support.

Dr. Mark Hansen, Superintendent of Elmbrook Schools, connects academic excellence with practical career preparation. He established the LAUNCH program, which pairs students with local businesses for hands-on learning. A former history teacher and high school principal, he also advances science-based reading instruction and works to balance rigorous education with responsible spending. 

Dr. Tremayne Clardy, Superintendent of Verona Area School District, pairs data-driven planning with direct community engagement. Since 2021, he has expanded student, staff, and family advisory councils, strengthened mental health partnerships, and guided academic gains. Named Wisconsin’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year, he prioritizes removing barriers to learning.

Dan Thielen, Superintendent of Oak Creek-Franklin Joint School District, draws on 31 years at Racine Unified and experience overseeing operations. His leadership connects the demands of running schools with a commitment to student success, college and career readiness, and partnerships that support the local community.

Dr. Amy Starzecki, District Administrator of the School District of Superior, applies her background in school psychology and special education to district-wide improvement. Named Wisconsin’s 2025 Superintendent of the Year, she advances student achievement, strengthens graduation outcomes, and builds community partnerships to address the needs of diverse learners.

Ryan Rieber has spent his career in education, progressing from classroom teaching in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to elementary school administration before taking on district leadership. His experience informs his focus on educator development, community engagement and strategic planning to prepare students for college, careers and life beyond graduation.

Dr. Jim Sebert, Superintendent of the School District of Waukesha, focuses on better teaching and careful spending. He works to align curricula across schools, support teachers, and manage declining enrollment through school consolidation. His goal is to direct more resources toward classrooms while improving student outcomes and limiting pressure on taxpayers.