ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - At its Nov.18 meeting, the Elk Grove Unified School District (EGUSD) Board of Trustees approved the superintendent contract for David Reilly. Reilly’s first day as superintendent of Elk Grove Unified School District will be Jan. 1, 2026.

Reilly brings more than 25 years of experience in public education, starting as an English teacher, vice principal, principal and then assistant superintendent of Human Resources and Student Services in the Sequoia Union High School District.

Following his tenure in the Bay Area, Reilly has been an associate superintendent in Elk Grove Unified for the past 10 years, where he has been instrumental in advancing educational programs both in regular and special education, fostering collaboration and promoting equity and innovation throughout the district. His deep knowledge of Elk Grove Unified School District, combined with his leadership experience and commitment to student success, positions him well to lead the district into its next chapter.

Reilly’s appointment follows an extensive search, which brought an excellent field of 17 highly qualified candidates. The board’s decision is a reflection of input gathered from key partners in education around the district and community regarding the qualities desired in the next Elk Grove Unified School District leader.

“At any other time, David’s decades of experience as an educator, his passion for learning and his dedication to our district would make him an outstanding leader for our district,” said Elk Grove Unified School District Board of Trustees President Michael Vargas. “But, in this unique moment, when budgets are tight, economic uncertainty is high and social change is constant, David is uniquely qualified to take the helm. Not only has he delivered real results for our students in his time at Elk Grove Unified School District, but he has earned the trust and support of our teachers, staff and education partners. We are thrilled that David will be leading us into this next chapter for the district.”

In response to the Board of Trustees approving the new superintendent contract, Reilly shared, “I am honored to serve as the next superintendent of the Elk Grove Unified School district and to lead a team of dedicated professionals who care deeply about the students we serve. I look forward to partnering with the school board, staff, families, students and our community to strengthen support for our most vulnerable learners and expand opportunities for all students to explore their passions. Together, we will continue to modernize operations, sustain responsible budgeting and maintain transparent and proactive communication to ensure the best possible outcomes for every student.”

Many people around the district supported the hiring of Reilly, emphasizing his qualifications, leadership skills and his commitment to student excellence.

“Mr. Reilly's decade with the district has shown his commitment to Elk Grove Unified School District,” stated Elk Grove Education Association (EGEA) President James Sutter. “He has been tasked with many difficult situations over the years and has always stepped up to the plate. EGEA looks forward to maintaining and building upon the positive relationship we have developed with Mr. Reilly for the benefit of all students, staff, and families in the district.”

California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter President said, “On behalf of CSEA, we are pleased to continue our partnership with Mr. Reilly. We are confident that our collaboration will help foster a positive and supportive environment for students and staff alike.”

American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Local 258 (AFSCME L258) shared a similar statement, “We wish to congratulate Mr. David Reilly as Superintendent of Elk Grove Unified School District. AFSCME looks forward to continued collaboration with Mr. Reilly in cultivating the district's goals and priorities for students and employees.”

Among Reilly’s short-term goals is to conduct a listening and learning tour.

“In my first six months, I look forward to visiting schools and meeting with students, staff and community members to listen, learn and gain a clear understanding of what is working well and where we can grow together,” Reilly said.

Community partners EG SPEAKS congratulate the Elk Grove Unified School District Board of Trustees on the selection of Reilly as the next superintendent, “Since the inception of EG SPEAKS, we have worked closely with Mr. Reilly to advance equity, inclusion, and accountability within special education and to improve outcomes for all students. His willingness to engage with families, listen to lived experiences, and collaborate toward solutions has been instrumental in the progress we’ve made together.”

A resident of Elk Grove, Reilly holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with departmental honors from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), a single-subject credential in English from San Francisco State University and a Master’s in Education, Administration and Leadership from Notre Dame de Namur University.

The Elk Grove Unified School District, located in one of the most diverse areas of California, is an award-winning district known for its commitment to academic excellence and learning for all students. The district is the fourth largest school district in California and the largest in Northern California, serving approximately 63,000 students with 129 different languages spoken. For more information about the Elk Grove Unified School District, visit egusd.net.