Farmington Associate Superintendent Takes Chicago Schools Job

Farmington Public Schools' Associate Superintendent of Administrative Support Services David Ruhland has accepted a new position with Chicago Public Schools, the third largest school district in the United States. 

Ruhland's new title is Director of Employee Engagement, and he will be responsible for leading the department that oversees labor relations. Chicago Public Schools has 404,151 students, 681 schools and 41,498 employees.

"I have had a desire to make an impact on a large, urban school district with the challenges that it presents and have always wanted to live in downtown Chicago. This position will help to fulfill both of these dreams," Ruhland said. "While I am sad to be leaving Farmington, I feel that I am leaving the District in good hands."

Ruhland will begin his position in Chicago on July 8, as the district faces closing 49 elementary schools and laying off 500 teachers. Superintendent Susan Zurvalec said he has been "a tremendous asset to Farmington Public Schools". 

"His expansive knowledge and experience in human resources and labor relations coupled with his knowledge of the law has helped to move our District forward over the past 11 years," Superintendent Susan Zurvalec said. "He will be difficult to replace, so I will take time to review how we will go about filling this leadership position."

Farmington officials on Tuesday approved the last two agreements Ruhland negotiated for the district, with the Farmington Association of School Administrators and employees who are not represented by a union.