As we head into summer break, I am excited to share leadership announcements for our Special Education and Early Childhood teams.
Interim Executive Director of Special Education Erin Purdy will officially have the interim designation removed from her title as she continues her leadership of Special Education.
Mrs. Purdy brings 20 years of experience in education, including time serving as a resource teacher at GRPS before returning to the district as a supervisor. She has provided steady, thoughtful leadership for our Special Education team during her time in the interim position, and we are confident that will continue in this permanent role.
Mrs. Purdy shares the following message:
"This work is deeply important to me, and I remain committed to supporting scholars, families, and staff while continuing to learn, grow, and strengthen special education services across our district. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such dedicated educators and community partners as we work to ensure every student has access to the support, opportunities, and inclusive educational experiences they deserve. Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. I look forward to continuing this work together in the service of our students and families."
I am also excited to welcome Sharalle V. Arnold to GRPS as our new Director of Early Childhood. Mrs. Arnold joins us from Louisiana State University, where she served as Director of Student Engagement and Impact at the African American Cultural Center.
This role marks a return to West Michigan, where she previously held leadership positions at Grand Valley State University. During her time at GVSU she served as Director of the Children’s Enrichment Center, supporting young children and families through high-quality early learning programs. She is an outstanding addition to our team and well-positioned to continue growing and strengthening early childhood opportunities at GRPS.
Mrs. Arnold shares the following message:
"I am excited to return to West Michigan, a place I affectionately call my second home, and join Grand Rapids Public Schools as the Director of Early Childhood. This opportunity is a full-circle moment for me, allowing me to return to early learning and bring together my passion, leadership, and commitment to educational excellence in service to our youngest scholars, their families, and the dedicated staff who support them. While my recent work has been in higher education, the mission remains the same: ensuring all students have access to high-quality educational opportunities and the support needed to thrive. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve, and I look forward to partnering with our families, teachers, and community to build strong foundations that positively achieve future success.”
I would like to thank all of the staff who took time to be part of the hiring process that led to these two excellent candidates. Please join me in congratulating both Mrs. Purdy and Mrs. Arnold on their leadership roles at GRPS!
Sincerely,
Leadriane Roby, Ph.D.
Superintendent