Superintendent of Schools

Welcome to Derby Public Schools!

Derby Public Schools has a long-standing reputation for providing excellent education and a variety of opportunities for students. Derby Public Schools has nine elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Our award-winning schools are made possible by the incredible educators, administrators, parents, support staff and the entire community who come together to meet the needs of students.

Derby Public Schools is invested in collaborative efforts for systemwide improvement through its 2022-2027 Strategic Plan, Needs Assessment and other district initiatives. Our Strategic Plan serves as a roadmap for success, articulating common expectations and goals in six key areas: Early Childhood-12+ Academic Achievement, Culture, Climate & Equity, Student & Staff Support for Special Services, Student & Staff Mental Health & Wellness Supports, Facilities & Partnerships, and Personnel Retention, Recruitment & Development. Please review the Strategic Plan and progress updates in more detail. If you wish to serve on a committee for one of these focus areas, we would love your involvement! Please email: hbohaty@usd260.com. 

For the 2024-2025 school year, the district is placing special emphasis on key focus areas from the Strategic Plan including Academics, Parent Involvement, Chronic Absenteeism and Character Strong, a district-wide social-emotional learning curriculum designed to develop character and strengthen educator-student relationships. These priorities aim to enhance academic outcomes and ensure a holistic approach to student and staff well-being as well as family engagement. 

Here at Derby Public Schools, we are committed to being the why (#BeTheWhy). We want your experience with us to be a positive, memorable one and the reason you want to keep coming back. We will continue to strive to exceed expectations and provide a positive experience for all.  

As a proud neighbor to McConnell Air Force base, our district and all 12 schools received the Purple Star Designation signifying a commitment and readiness to support the unique needs of military-connected families. Additionally, ahead of this school year leadership from Derby Public Schools and McConnell Air Force Base formed a Military-Connected Educational Partnership Council that meets throughout the year for ongoing collaboration and support for our families. Learn more on our Military Families web page.

We pride ourselves on finding ways to take care of our staff. From wellness benefits, employee assistance program, gym membership, entry to regular season school sports events for the staff member and their families and most recently, offering to provide bus transportation of their children from their worksite to their school site.

Over the past 29 years serving in different capacities within Derby Public Schools from teacher, principal, Assistant Superintendent to Superintendent. I look forward to a successful year and engaging with our students, staff, families and community members. We have an outstanding school system and a community with many wonderful amenities for families with unmatched community support. 

Heather Bohaty
Superintendent of Schools