Peoria School Board approves Ryan Burke as new special education director

The Peoria Unified Governing Board convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss several key issues, with the appointment of a new special education director taking center stage. The board unanimously approved the recommendation of Mr. Jerry "Ryan" Burke for the position, following a thorough selection process aimed at finding the best candidate to lead the district's special education department.

Mr. Burke brings a wealth of experience to Peoria, having worked in special education since 1992. His career began in Arizona as a school psychologist before he transitioned to the Alpine School District in Utah, where he held various roles, including special education coordinator and director for secondary schools. His extensive background includes training staff on behavior intervention strategies and overseeing professional development for special education personnel.

The board expressed enthusiasm about Mr. Burke's qualifications and his commitment to fostering a collaborative culture within the district. His approach emphasizes a service-oriented mindset, which is crucial for supporting students with individual education plans. Board members highlighted the importance of having a strong leader in place, especially for the district's vulnerable student population.

The meeting also acknowledged the hard work of the team involved in the selection process, who stepped up during the interim period without a director. Board members praised the team's dedication and expressed excitement about welcoming Mr. Burke to the Peoria Unified School District.

In conclusion, the appointment of Mr. Burke marks a significant step forward for the district's special education services, with board members looking forward to his contributions and leadership in the coming years.