Chandler Unified School District Hires New Superintendent with Higher Salary

Dr. Anna Battle to take over as district's top administrator on July 1 with $265,000 base pay

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:05am

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The Chandler Unified School District Governing Board has approved a three-year contract for Dr. Anna Battle to become the district's new superintendent, with a base salary of $265,000 - higher than the $250,000 base pay of her predecessor, Frank Narducci. The board voted 4-1 to approve the contract, with Vice President Barb Mozdzen dissenting, though she declined to comment on the specifics of her objection.

Why it matters

The hiring of a new superintendent is a significant event for any school district, as the superintendent plays a crucial role in setting the district's vision, priorities, and policies. The higher base salary for Dr. Battle compared to the previous superintendent suggests the board's desire to attract top talent and potentially indicates the district's commitment to investing in educational leadership.

The details

Under the terms of the contract, Dr. Battle will be eligible for an annual raise equal to the increase approved for 12-month certified administrators in the district, as well as up to $15,000 in performance-based pay each year if the board agrees she has made acceptable progress toward her goals. She will also receive a $12,000 annual administrative stipend. This brings her total potential compensation to at least $292,000 per year. The board cannot lower her salary without her written permission, but they do have the right to unilaterally terminate the contract, which would require an 18-month base salary payment to Dr. Battle.

  • Dr. Battle will begin her role as Chandler Unified School District Superintendent on July 1, 2026.
  • The Chandler Unified School District Governing Board approved Dr. Battle's contract at their March 25, 2026 meeting.

The players

Dr. Anna Battle

The newly hired Chandler Unified School District Superintendent, who previously served as the deputy superintendent for the Roosevelt School District in Phoenix. She has also held superintendent and other leadership roles in other Arizona school districts.

Frank Narducci

The outgoing Chandler Unified School District Superintendent, whose final base salary was $250,000.

Barb Mozdzen

The Vice President of the Chandler Unified School District Governing Board, who cast the dissenting vote on Dr. Battle's contract.

Chandler Unified School District Governing Board

The elected board responsible for overseeing the Chandler Unified School District, including hiring the superintendent.

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What they’re saying

“Because this was a dual-action item, we are approving the hiring and we're approving the employment contract, I just want it noted that I'm unhappy with the contract.”

— Barb Mozdzen, Vice President, Chandler Unified School District Governing Board

“I stand before you recognizing that education is more than academics, it's transformation. It is about helping students discover potential within themselves that may not yet be seen, and preparing them for a future filled with opportunity, purpose and hope. Together, we will build on a strong foundation that's already in place. I look forward to working alongside each of you as we continue to move this district forward with purpose, excellence and hope. I am honored to serve.”

— Dr. Anna Battle

What’s next

The Chandler Unified School District Governing Board will work with Dr. Battle to establish her specific performance goals by June 30, 2026, which will determine her eligibility for up to $15,000 in annual performance-based pay.

The takeaway

The Chandler Unified School District's decision to hire an outside candidate as its new superintendent, rather than promoting from within, signals a desire for fresh leadership and a willingness to invest in top talent. The higher base salary for Dr. Battle compared to the previous superintendent suggests the board's commitment to attracting and retaining exceptional educational leaders who can drive continued progress and transformation in the district.