Meet Dr. Leadriane Roby
Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Leadriane Roby (pronounced Lee-dree-in Robe-ee) is the Superintendent of Grand Rapids Public Schools. First appointed in February 2020, she is excited to bring her more than 26-years of experience in public education and determination to make a difference in the lives of scholars in the Grand Rapids community.
As an experienced educator and innovative leader, Dr. Roby has impacted classrooms, communities, and cultures in urban and suburban districts. Before serving as Superintendent, Dr. Roby served as a district leader, elementary and secondary principal, mentor, instructional leader, and elementary classroom teacher in districts in both Michigan and Minnesota. From turning around school performance to strategic planning, she embraces 21st-century solutions with authentic, inclusive, transparent, and comprehensive engagement and thoughtful, data-driven decision-making.
As a strong advocate for educational equity, access, and excellence for all scholars, Dr. Roby remains mindful of the current academic, social, emotional, public health, and economic environment. She knows teacher preparation, support, and mentoring shape the academic experiences of scholars, and she is passionate about building partnerships with community stakeholders to support learners throughout our district.
After reviewing two months of community input from a diverse set of stakeholders, the 2021 Strategic Plan resulted in six prioritized outcomes and six themes that will help shape the trajectory of our district’s future. Learn more about the GRPS Strategic Plan.
Dr. Roby holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership, Research, and Technology from Western Michigan University. She earned her Master’s degree in Education Administration from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota and her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota.
Dr. Roby proudly serves on multiple committees including:
- Kent Intermediate Superintendents Association
- Middle Cities Education Association
- Education Advocates of West Michigan
- Talent 2025
- The Economic Club of Grand Rapids
- GRPS Foundation
- United Way Board of Directors
- KISA Region III & IV Superintendents
A first-time grandmother, Dr. Roby, and her husband, Steven, have three adult children.