Gilbert Unified Board appoints Carrie Soderman as director of safety and security

The Gilbert Unified District governing board voted to appoint Carrie Soderman as the district’s director of safety and security for the 2025–2026 school year.

The board approved the appointment after a motion by Board Member Jill Humphreys and a second from Board Member Sheena Murray. Board President Chad Thompson called the vote; members responded “aye,” and the motion passed.

Board members praised outgoing director Al Kane for his service. Dr. Blake Robeson said he was “really sad” to see Kane leave and described Kane’s work keeping students and staff safe as “tremendous.” Robeson said he had met Soderman before the meeting and was “super excited” about her selection. Kane was in the audience and received applause from the board.

Soderman, who identified herself as a parent in the district and a 20-year member of the Gilbert Police Department, told the board she looked forward to “bringing that” experience to the district and continuing Kane’s work. She thanked the board for its “vote of faith” and said student safety is a high priority for her as a parent.

The board recessed briefly after the appointment to allow members and attendees to congratulate Soderman and to recognize Kane.

Action details: the board approved the appointment at agenda item 5.01. The motion was moved by Jill Humphreys and seconded by Sheena Murray; the board voted in favor and the appointment passed.

Background: The appointment fills the district’s top safety role for the upcoming school year. The board made the decision in public session after members discussed Kane’s service and Soderman’s qualifications.