District 41 Chooses Paul Gordon as Next Superintendent

The District 41 Board of Education has chosen its next superintendent to lead the district forward beginning July 2013. 

Paul Gordon, chief academic officer at the Adams 12 Five Star Schools in Westminster, Colo., will assume the role on July 1. He will earn a base salary of $195,000. Gordon will replace Ann Riebock, who is retiring at the end of the school year.

The District 41 Board of Education approved Gordon’s appointment and three-year contract during its regular meeting Monday night.

"After interviewing a number of truly exceptional candidates, the board was unanimous that Dr. Gordon is a great fit for our district," said Erica Nelson, the District 41 Board president. "He brings the professionalism and experience needed to continue the high achievement that District 41 has experienced under Dr. Riebock's leadership these past seven years. He also understands that continued growth for our students includes academic achievement, social-emotional development and belonging to a safe and welcoming place where teachers and staff care deeply about their work."  

Gordon’s educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Arts degree from Metropolitan State University in Denver;
• Master of Arts from the University of Phoenix in Denver;
• Doctor of Education from Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, Calif.

He began his educational career as a middle school teacher in the Adams 12 schools and was promoted over the years to assistant principal, principal, executive director of schools, and in 2010 to chief academic officer, District 41 said in a news release.

"I'm drawn to District 41 because of its mission, vision, values and because I believe I can honor its traditions and its history of high academic achievement while fostering growth and innovation," Gordon said. "As a former teacher and now as an administrator, I thrive on the rewards of public education and relish its challenges. I'm looking forward to working with staff, parents and the community to build on the district's successes."

In addition to his salary, his contract also includes contributions for health and dental insurance, and retirement, District 41 said. He will be reimbursed up to $21,500 for expenses related to relocating from Colorado and acquiring housing near the district.