Davis School District Superintendent Dr. Dan Linford has been named the 2026 Utah Superintendent of the Year by the Utah School Superintendents Association, an honor that moves him forward to compete for the national AASA Superintendent of the Year award. The distinction was presented during a surprise ceremony on Aug. 3, 2026, following a keynote address at the district's Summer Leadership Conference held at Syracuse High School.
Leadership Recognition
Dr. Lexi Cunningham, the executive director of the Utah School Superintendents Association, praised Linford for his leadership and commitment to the district. Cunningham stated that Linford's visionary leadership and dedication to strengthening public education have left a lasting impact on both the Davis School District and the state of Utah. She noted that his work exemplifies integrity, innovation, and a focus on student success.
A Collective Effort
Reflecting on the award, Linford emphasized that his success is not an individual achievement but a reflection of the collective efforts of the district's staff and community. He credited the outcome to the work of teachers, principals, district leaders, board members, and community partners who work toward a common purpose. Linford noted that the recognition from his colleagues, whom he expressed deep respect for, was particularly meaningful.
Career Background
Linford, who has served as the superintendent for the Davis School District since July 2022, is the 19th person to hold the position. A graduate of Clearfield High School, he began his career in 1999 as a high school English teacher. His administrative career includes roles as an assistant principal at Viewmont High School and as its principal starting in 2011. Before being appointed superintendent by the Board of Education, he served as a secondary director beginning in 2016.
Educational Foundations
Linford's educational background includes a bachelor's degree in English teaching from Weber State University, as well as a master's degree and a doctorate in Educational Leadership & Policy from the University of Utah. For the past year, Linford has also served as the president for the 43-member Utah School Superintendents Association.
District Profile and Demographics
The Davis School District, where Linford has led since 2022, manages a large network of schools and students. According to 2024 district profile data, the district encompasses 93 schools and serves a total student enrollment of 70,679. The student population is notably diverse, with 80% of students identified as White, 13% as Hispanic, 3% as Multi-Racial, 1% as Asian, 1% as Black/African American, and 1% as Pacific Islander.
Teaching Workforce Statistics
In addition to student enrollment, the district maintains a significant teaching workforce. Data from March 2024 indicated that 61% of the district's teachers have seven or more years of experience, while 21% have between zero and three years of experience. The district also reported a teacher retention rate of 58% for teachers who have taught at the same school for three or more years.
District Administration Structure
The district administration, which supports the superintendent's mission to place student learning at the focal point, includes several key leaders. According to the district's administration records, the leadership team includes Assistant Superintendents Dr. Logan Toone, Chadli Bodily, Dr. Fidel Montero, and Tim Leffel, who also serves as the Business Administrator. The district's mission remains focused on student learning through various administrative and policy frameworks.
