SE Valley Times

The Mesa Public Schools Governing Board has approved a contract appointing Dr. Matthew Strom as the new superintendent of Mesa Public Schools. The decision, made during a special board meeting on December 19, was unanimous with a 5-0 vote. Dr. Strom is set to assume his role on July 1, 2025, following the retirement of current superintendent Dr. Andi Fourlis on June 30, 2024.

Dr. Strom expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm after the vote: "I'm honored to be selected as the next Superintendent of Mesa Public Schools. Mesa is a community with incredible strengths and I look forward to partnering with our educators, families and stakeholders to build on the district's foundation of excellence."

He emphasized the focus on student success and financial stewardship: “Together, we'll focus on student success, ensure full financial stewardship of our resources, and continue to align our work with our strategic goals.”

Dr. Strom also acknowledged personal support: “Now, on a personal note... I'm so grateful to have every one of my family members’ contributions to everything that's happened in my life and in my career.”

Selected earlier this month as leader for Arizona’s largest school district, Dr. Strom joined Mesa Public Schools in April 2023 and was promoted to Associate Superintendent by July 2024. His previous experience includes serving as Assistant Superintendent of K-12 Education at Chandler Unified School District.

With 27 years dedicated to public education across various roles including teacher and executive director positions, Dr. Strom has focused on efficiency improvements and strategic planning.

His academic credentials include degrees from Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University where he earned both his Master's degree and Doctorate (Ed.D.). Married for 24 years to Marcia Strom, they have three sons: Zavian attending MIT; Quentin at Case Western Reserve University; Elijah who is currently a high school senior.