CHANDLER, AZ — On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) Governing Board selected Dr. Anna Battle as the district’s next superintendent following an extensive, community-informed search process that included three finalists. The selection is contingent upon successful contract negotiations and the Board’s acceptance of an independent background check.
Dr. Anna Battle is a distinguished instructional and operational leader with nearly four decades of experience advancing student achievement, organizational excellence, and equitable educational systems. She currently serves as Deputy Superintendent for Roosevelt School District (PK–8) in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, where she provides leadership over academics and operations, including human resources, finance, teaching and learning, special education, data and research, technology, student services, transportation, student-wellness, and athletics. Known for her visionary leadership, Dr. Battle effectively managed multi-million-dollar budgets, complex operational systems, and diverse educational programs, maintaining strong relationships with governing boards, community partners, and legislative stakeholders.
Dr. Battle’s career includes service as Superintendent of Casa Grande Union High School District, K–12 Managing Director/Head of Schools at ASU Preparatory Academy, and Assistant Superintendent of Operations for Tempe Union High School District. She also served as principal at both Desert Vista High School and Tempe High School, where her leadership earned statewide and national recognition.
An accomplished scholar-practitioner, Dr. Battle holds a Doctor of Education from Arizona State University, has taught graduate-level leadership courses, and authored publications on trust and student advocacy. Her career reflects commitment to leadership, integrity, and community impact.
“Our Board is excited to welcome Dr. Battle and to work alongside her as we continue building on the many strengths of Chandler Unified,” said Governing Board President Patti Serrano. “Her passion for public education, combined with her experience leading school systems, reflects the priorities our community identified throughout this process and positions our district well for the future.”
“Over the past several months, the CUSD Governing Board heard from students, staff, families, and community members,” Serrano added. “That input was invaluable in shaping our leadership profile and guiding both the search process and the final selection. We are deeply grateful for the engagement, thoughtfulness, and care our community demonstrated every step of the way.”
The Governing Board initiated the superintendent search in October 2025 and retained Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates (HYA) to conduct a national search. The engagement phase included focus groups, community forums, and stakeholder interviews designed to capture a broad range of perspectives across the district. The application period closed on January 2, 2026.
Following a comprehensive review of applicants, the Board identified four semi-finalists, who were interviewed in executive session on January 24. Three finalists advanced and, on January 28, participated in school visits, stakeholder meetings, and staff- and community-wide forums.
Dr. Battle will officially assume the role of superintendent on July 1, 2026, following the retirement of Superintendent Frank Narducci. Mr. Narducci has served Chandler Unified School District for more than 30 years and has been superintendent since 2021. HYA will support the district throughout the leadership transition to ensure continuity, stability, and a strong start.
The Governing Board extends its sincere appreciation to students, district staff, families and community partners for their thoughtful participation in this important and consequential process. We also thank all candidates for their time and interest in serving our premiere District. Chandler Unified continues to demonstrate the strength of a community deeply invested in its schools and centering our students. The Board looks forward with confidence and optimism to the district’s next chapter.
Press release written by CUSD.