David Schuler

Known for his ability to inspire leaders and build new opportunities for student success, Dr. David R. Schuler earned the title of 2018 Illinois and National Superintendent of the Year and served as the 2015-2016 President of AASA, The School Superintendents Association.  In the latter role, he spearheaded the national Redefining Ready! movement, which redefines what it means for students to be college, career and life ready. He led the national Redefining Ready! Cohort and the Aspiring Superintendents Academy through AASA, where he shares his perspectives on leadership and helps develop the next generation of outstanding leaders who lift up public education.  Dr. Schuler began his role as the ninth executive director in 156 years of AASA, The School Superintendents Association in February 2023.Dr. Schuler served 22 years as a superintendent. He has served in rural, urban and suburban settings and developed an innovative instructional philosophy focused on career pathways, early college credit, and industry credentials that enables students to discover their futures while still in high school. District 214 now offers 44 programs of study aligned with the 16 national career clusters that allow for students to gain real-world experience through youth apprenticeships and workplace learning experiences.Dr. Schuler earned his bachelor’s degree from Carroll University and his master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.