Superintendent Dr. Shawn Ryan

Dr. Shawn P. Ryan was hired as the Clarkston Community Schools Superintendent in May 2018 after having served as a guest teacher (1995-1996), student teacher (1996), science teacher (1997-2002), Clarkston High School assistant principal (2002-2004), Clarkston Middle School principal (2004-2005), Clarkston Junior High School principal (2005-2010), deputy superintendent (2010-2017) and interim superintendent (2018). In his nearly three decades at Clarkston Community Schools, Dr. Ryan has proven himself to be an extraordinary educator and leader.

His numerous career accomplishments include spearheading the middle school/junior high reconfiguration in 2004, a restructuring that reduced the district budget by $10 million in 2010, and passing a $76 million bond for technology and facilities updates in 2016. His strong leadership was instrumental in introducing improved co-curricular opportunities in all elementary schools and adding instructional technology and reading coaches across the district. Most recently, Dr. Ryan was a driving force behind the implementation of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) program in Clarkston Community Schools. MTSS is a comprehensive data-informed framework designed to meet the individual needs of the whole child.

He is a natural community builder, and his ability to create unique community connections led to the development of innovative partnerships with Easterseals Michigan, the Clarkston Medical Group, and several other reputable organizations that support students, staff, and the community.

Ryan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Chemistry from Saint Vincent College in Pennsylvania and a master’s in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University. He earned his teaching certification at Oakland University, as well as a post-master's certification in Central Office Administration. In May 2020, The university featured his participation in the Oakland University Central Office Certification Program in the article, “Shawn Ryan: A Visionary School Leader.”

In June 2020, Ryan successfully defended his doctoral dissertation to earn a Doctor of Education degree from Oakland University. The capstone project was entitled "The Case For The Application Of Hyper-Equity On Subgroup Achievement Gaps in Clarkston Community Schools."

Ryan resides in Clarkston, Michigan, with his family.