Pending board approval, the Urbana City Schools Board of Education is expected to name Carla Shaw as the district’s next superintendent, with an anticipated start date of August 1, 2026.
The Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. to consider the employment of a superintendent and take any action related to the matter. The meeting will be held at the Central Office Building at 711 Wood Street.
Shaw currently serves as assistant superintendent for London City Schools and brings experience as a former high school assistant principal, director of virtual programs and innovation, physical education teacher, coach, and student-athlete. Her career includes serving as assistant superintendent at London City Schools since 2023, director of virtual programs and innovation from 2021 to 2023, and high school assistant principal from 2018 to 2021. Prior to moving into administration, she was a physical education teacher at Hamilton Local Schools from 2010 to 2018.
She holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from Western Governors University and a bachelor’s degree in education from The Ohio State University.
During the superintendent meet-and-greet on Wednesday, Shaw told attendees her background in academics and athletics has shaped a leadership style rooted in teamwork, accountability, and relationship-building. She said her priorities include visibility, communication, and strong community involvement.
Shaw described Urbana as a “very special district” and said she would begin building relationships with staff, students, and families before the school year starts by attending public events, school functions, and regular meetings. As a wife and mother of two, she said she understands the importance of trust and communication between schools and families.
She also said staff input would be a priority, with plans to gather feedback and involve employees in district planning while maintaining consistent communication with the teachers’ union. Shaw added that she plans to be highly visible in school buildings and work closely with students, staff, and program coordinators—including special education teachers—to improve learning environments and address facility needs.
When discussing leadership and decision-making, Shaw said she would rely on data before making difficult decisions, keeping students as the top priority. She added that she would measure success not by wins or losses, but by whether staff and community members feel the district is moving in a positive direction.
