Peoria Schools Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Peoria Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Peoria Schools aligns curriculum with standards, recruits and retains staff, provides differentiated instruction, and creates a universal structure of support to ensure each student's success.

Leadership Roles at Peoria Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Willis
  • Board President - Martha Ross
  • Superintendent - Jerry Bell
  • Deputy Superintendent - Renee Andrews
  • Michael Willis - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Willis, the Chief Financial Officer at Peoria Schools, manages the district's fiscal health and financial planning. Willis directs the allocation of resources, ensuring that budgetary decisions directly support educational goals and operational needs. This role involves developing and implementing financial policies that promote efficiency and accountability throughout the district. The Chief Financial Officer oversees all financial reporting, providing transparent and accurate data to stakeholders, including the school board and the public. Willis is responsible for managing the district's revenue streams, including state and federal funding, and optimizing their utilization. Strategic financial forecasting and risk management are critical components of this position, safeguarding the district's long-term stability. Michael Willis works closely with other district leaders to align financial strategies with the overarching mission of student success, ensuring that fiscal responsibility underpins all educational endeavors. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight ensures that financial operations effectively support the district's commitment to providing a high-quality education.

    Martha Ross - Board President

    Martha Ross, the Board President at Peoria Schools, presides over the district's governing board, providing strategic leadership and oversight. Ross guides the board in setting policy, approving budgets, and ensuring the district operates in alignment with its mission and legal requirements. This role involves fostering effective governance and ensuring accountability to the community and stakeholders. The Board President facilitates board meetings, ensuring productive discussions and informed decision-making. Martha Ross works collaboratively with the Superintendent and other district leaders to champion educational excellence and student achievement. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of educational best practices and community needs. Ross oversees the board's role in recruiting and retaining qualified leadership, including the Superintendent. The Board President ensures that the district's commitment to curriculum alignment, differentiated instruction, and student support systems is consistently upheld. Martha Ross's governance ensures the strategic direction of Peoria Schools prioritizes student success.

    Jerry Bell - Superintendent

    Jerry Bell, the Superintendent at Peoria Schools, directs the overall educational strategy and operational execution for the district. Bell oversees the alignment of curriculum with state and national standards, ensuring a rigorous and comprehensive learning experience for all students. This leadership role involves the recruitment and retention of high-quality staff, fostering a professional environment that supports educators. Bell drives the implementation of differentiated instruction methodologies, catering to diverse student needs and learning styles. The Superintendent champions the integration and effective use of technology across all educational platforms, preparing students for a digitally-driven future. Developing personal education plans for each student is a core responsibility, ensuring individualized pathways to success. Bell also guides the assessment and evaluation systems, measuring student progress and informing instructional adjustments. The Superintendent's focus extends to creating a universal structure of support, guaranteeing that every student receives the resources necessary for academic achievement. Jerry Bell's leadership ensures the district's mission of student success is paramount in all initiatives.

    Renee Andrews - Deputy Superintendent

    Renee Andrews, the Deputy Superintendent at Peoria Schools, supports the Superintendent in executing the district's strategic vision and operational directives. Andrews oversees key administrative functions, ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of educational programs and support services. This leadership position involves managing the implementation of curriculum initiatives and professional development programs for staff. The Deputy Superintendent plays a crucial role in fostering a collaborative environment among school administrators and educators. Renee Andrews is instrumental in ensuring that the district's commitment to differentiated instruction and personalized education plans is effectively realized across all schools. This role requires close coordination with the Chief Financial Officer and other department heads to align resources with strategic priorities. Andrews also contributes to the development and refinement of assessment and evaluation systems, monitoring student progress and program effectiveness. The Deputy Superintendent's focus on creating a universal structure of support ensures that all students have access to the resources needed for success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Peoria Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Peoria Schools?
    Peoria Schools is led by Michael Willis (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Martha Ross (Board President) and Jerry Bell (Superintendent).
    Who is part of Peoria Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Peoria Schools includes leaders such as Michael Willis (Chief Financial Officer), Martha Ross (Board President), Jerry Bell (Superintendent) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Peoria Schools have?
    Peoria Schools has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Peoria Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Peoria Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Board President, Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent.