Chandler Unified board selects Dr. Anna Battle as next superintendent, votes 4–1

The Chandler Unified School District #80 governing board voted 4–1 on Jan. 29 to select Dr. Anna Battle as the district’s next superintendent, with the appointment effective July 1, 2026, contingent on successful contract negotiations and the board’s acceptance of an independent background check.

Board member Mr. Heap moved the appointment “to select doctor Anna Battle as superintendent's USD effective 07/01/2026 contingent upon the successful negotiation of an employment contract and the board's acceptance of an independent background check.” Mrs. Mendoza seconded the motion, and the board recorded four votes in favor and one abstention. The president announced the motion passed 4 to 1.

The vote followed remarks from Mr. Heap, who described the search as a “long, well thought out, methodical process,” naming the search firm HYA and saying the board evaluated candidates’ merits, strengths and weaknesses, considered site participants and walkthrough feedback, and reviewed public comments. “I feel that this decision is the best one for CUSD considering all things before us,” he said.

The board president praised Dr. Battle’s experience leading complex school systems and her “passion for public education,” and thanked district staff, families, students and community partners who participated in the search. The president added a welcome to Dr. Battle and said the board looked forward to working with her.

Board members voted in this order during the roll call: Madam President — Aye; Mr. Heap — Aye; Miss Madsen — Abstain; Mrs. Mendoza — Aye; Mr. Morris — Aye. The district noted that the appointment is contingent on completing contract negotiations and an independent background check before the selection becomes finalized.

The special meeting concluded with the board adjourning. The next procedural steps are contract negotiation and the background check; no timeline for completion was provided in the meeting record.