The present deputy superintendent of 27J Schools will become the superintendent of 27J Schools next year.

The 27J board of education chose Will Pierce to take over the job in July 2024, once present Superintendent Chris Fiedler steps aside after his contract runs out. The board’s vote was unanimous.

A district statement said the timeline allows Pierce to work with Fiedler during the coming school year. From the start of the search, the board wanted to ensure a stable transition of leadership.

Pierce said the district’s work and accomplishments are the reasons behind the district’s existence.

“I wholeheartedly believe that our mission really speaks to what we do and where we’re going,” he said in the statement. “We’re working with our community and families to empower every kid today to have a successful future tomorrow. Education is not only a ladder of opportunity, but it’s also an investment in our future.”

As the deputy superintendent, Pierce oversees the district’s student achievement division. Part of that job entailed the development of 27J’s dashboard, which helps parents, staff and the community see the district’s progress toward academic and social/emotional goals, according to the statement. Pierce also was behind a revision of graduation standards to make the system more relevant to students and to meet state requirements.

“We’re thrilled to name Will Pierce as our next superintendent,” board President Greg Piotraschke said in the statement. “There is no better candidate than Will Pierce for 27J Schools and our community.”