Perry Community School District Names Thomas Ryherd as Next Superintendent

Ryherd will succeed retiring superintendent Clark Wicks, bringing over 25 years of experience in Iowa schools

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:25am

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The Perry Community School District has announced that Thomas Ryherd will be the district's next superintendent, starting on July 1. Ryherd currently serves as superintendent of the Cherokee Community School District and has over 25 years of experience in Iowa schools, including a previous stint as a sixth grade math teacher at Perry Elementary School. The district's board cited Ryherd's commitment to open communication and relationship-centered leadership as key factors in his selection.

Why it matters

The appointment 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, managing operations, and overseeing the education of students. Ryherd's background and experience suggest he may bring new ideas and approaches that could impact the Perry district and community.

The details

Ryherd will succeed Clark Wicks, who is retiring at the end of the current school year. Before becoming superintendent in Cherokee, Ryherd served as a principal at Washington High School and worked to expand postsecondary and career opportunities for students. As superintendent in Cherokee, he also initiated a district-wide facility planning process and oversaw a high school remodel and addition.

  • Thomas Ryherd will start as superintendent on July 1, 2026.
  • Clark Wicks is retiring at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.

The players

Thomas Ryherd

The incoming superintendent of the Perry Community School District, with over 25 years of experience in Iowa schools including a previous stint as a sixth grade math teacher in Perry.

Clark Wicks

The current superintendent of the Perry Community School District, who is retiring at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.

Linda Andorf

The president of the Perry Community School District board, who cited Ryherd's commitment to open communication and relationship-centered leadership as key factors in his selection.

Grundmeyer Leader Services

The firm that assisted the Perry Community School District board with the superintendent search process.

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What they’re saying

“I am excited about the opportunity to work alongside the faculty, staff, students and families of Perry. I look forward to building authentic relationships with students, staff, families and community members to create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.”

— Thomas Ryherd, Incoming Superintendent

“The Perry Community School District is excited to have Tom Ryherd join the Bluejay family. Tom is a talented leader and gifted administrator who has demonstrated his ability in a variety of assignments. Tom's passion for non-traditional learning opportunities, previous teaching experience in diverse communities and experience as a teacher, coach, principal and superintendent will be a tremendous asset for the Perry district and community.”

— Linda Andorf, Board President

What’s next

The Perry Community School District board must approve Ryherd's contract before he can officially begin as superintendent on July 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The appointment of Thomas Ryherd as the new superintendent of the Perry Community School District represents a significant transition for the district, as he brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to building strong relationships with the school community. His background and approach suggest he may introduce new ideas and initiatives that could positively impact the district and its students.