Superintendent Bruce Gearing, Ed.D., has announced his intention to retire at the end of the 2025-26 school year, concluding a distinguished career in public education and six years of service to Leander ISD.

“This district and this community have changed my life,” Gearing said. “I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary dedication of our staff, the brilliance of our students, and the passionate engagement of our families. It has been an honor to serve Leander ISD, and I look forward to this next chapter with deep gratitude.”

During Gearing’s years of service, Leander ISD students, schools and staff:

  • Earned multiple state and national championships for student teams and programs, including College Board’s AP Large District of the Year in 2023,
  • Implemented the district’s inaugural five-year strategic plan,
  • Re-launched teacher collaboration teams (professional learning communities) so educators work together to identify student needs and ensure every learner gets the support they need,
  • Passed a Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE) and an Attendance Credit Election (ACE),
  • Passed a $763 million bond package to support safety and security enhancements and additional facilities.

Board President Anna Smith expressed appreciation for Gearing’s leadership.

“Dr. Gearing’s dedication has helped shape opportunities for every learner,” Smith said. “With his retirement, we now look ahead to the next chapter of innovation and possibility for Leander ISD.”

To ensure a seamless leadership transition, Gearing will serve as superintendent emeritus over the coming months, supporting district operations and the incoming administration. At its Dec. 11 meeting, the Board of Trustees will appoint an acting superintendent and later outline the process for selecting the district’s next permanent leader.

Before joining LISD, Gearing served at Dripping Springs ISD, Marshall ISD, Mt. Pleasant ISD and Texarkana ISD. He was named Region 13 Superintendent of the Year in 2019 and one of five finalists for Texas Superintendent of the Year. Of his four children, one is a Leander ISD graduate, his youngest will graduate from the district in May.