McPherson USD 418 has a new superintendent of schools. At a special meeting Tuesday night the Board of Education approved a contract with Dr. Cody Rierson to be the new superintendent, effective July 1st.
Dr. Rierson currently serves as Superintendent of Moundridge USD 423, where he has been since 2021. Before that he was principal at Lincoln Elementary School in McPherson, and began his career in the in USD 418 as a teacher. Dr. Rierson graduated from McPherson College in 2005, and earned his district-level licensure from Wichita State University, where he also received his doctorate.
Board of education president Dr.Lara Vanderhoof in a statement last night Dr. Rierson’s leadership comes at an important time for the district. “Dr. Cody Rierson is the right person at the right time to carry forward USD418 McPherson Public Schools’ tradition of excellence. Dr. Rierson’s unique blend of experience and relational leadership aligns perfectly with our district’s goals, ensuring our transition into new facilities and modern learning models is both seamless and inspired.”
Dr. Rierson was one of three finalists interviewed for the position, During this process the Board gathered input from staff and community members through surveys and focus groups Each finalist met with staff across the district, and community members were invited to attend meet-and-greet events. The Board met in an executive session Saturday to review the interviews and make their selection.
In a statement Dr, Rierson said “McPherson Public Schools are home to me, and I’m excited to get to work. I’m thankful for the opportunity to give back and work tirelessly on behalf of the students, staff, and community at USD 418,”
Dr. Rierson will begin the transition process immediately, and will begin his contract July 1st. He succeeds Dr. Shiloh Vincent, who is leaving to become executive director of ESSDACK, an educational support services organization based in Hutchinson.
