Meet Dr. Leadriane Roby
Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Leadriane Roby (pronounced Lee-dree-in Robe-ee) is the Superintendent of Grand Rapids Public Schools, a position she has held since 2020.
During her time with Grand Rapids Public Schools, she has spearheaded a multi-year initiative to involve scholars, families, staff, and the broader Grand Rapids community in shaping the district’s future. This collaborative effort culminated in the approval of a new Strategic Plan in 2021. Building on that foundation, the Reimagine GRPS with Us! plan was launched in 2023, committing $305 million to enhance our schools and guide academic programs across the district.
Under Dr. Roby’s leadership, GRPS has achieved significant milestones, including record-high graduation rates and the largest enrollment growth in over two decades. Her contributions to the Grand Rapids community have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of Grand Rapids' 200 Most Influential Leaders and one of West Michigan's 50 Most Influential Women. Additionally, Dr. Roby has been honored as a Western Michigan University Distinguished Alumni.
Before serving as Superintendent of Grand Rapids Public Schools, 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.
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 and boards including:
- Michigan Association of AA Superintendent Vice President
- Heart of West Michigan United Way, Board Member
- Grand Rapids Promise Zone, Board Member
- Corewell Health Community Advisory Committee
- Teach!Michigan Systems Leader Fellow
- GRPS Foundation
- The Economic Club of Grand Rapids
- Kent Intermediate Superintendents Association
- Middle Cities Education Association
- Education Advocates of West Michigan
- Talent 2025
- KISA Region III & IV Superintendents
Dr. Roby and her husband, Steven, have three adult children and two grandchildren.