Kathy Prather Named One of Arizona’s Top 10 School Superintendents

BizTUCSONNovember 5, 2026

1 minute read

Pima JTED Superintendent and CEO Kathy Prather has been named one of Arizona’s Top 10 School Superintendents for 2026 by Education Insider magazine, recognizing her strategic leadership and contributions to career and technical education.

According to the magazine, honorees are selected through peer nominations, reader input and a thorough editorial board evaluation.

In the accompanying article, “The Path Ahead for the Careers of Tomorrow,” Education Insider’s publication highlights Prather’s vision for career and technical education as a pathway to both career and college success.

“We want students to see themselves on a pathway to success, not simply at the door of a college or university,” Prather said.

Under Prather’s leadership, Pima JTED has experienced 77% growth over the past five years, reflecting increased recognition of the value of hands-on, career-focused learning. She champions partnerships with business and industry to anticipate future workforce needs and prepare students with the technical skills, industry-recognized credentials, and problem-solving abilities needed to succeed in a changing economy.

Prather’s recognition underscores her commitment to expanding transformational educational opportunities for all students, and strengthening Arizona’s workforce and economy.

Education Insider is a national print and digital education magazine featuring insights from education leaders and highlighting innovative approaches, institutional leadership, and developments shaping the future of education.

Other 2026 honorees include Jennifer Cruz, superintendent of Pendergast Elementary School District; Stacia Wilson, superintendent of Tempe Union High School District; and Cole Young, superintendent of Mohave Valley School District.

Pima Joint Technical Education District is a public Career and Technical Education District that partners with business and industry and 14 member public school districts to provide premier CTE programs to approximately 30,000 high school students each year in Pima, Pinal, and Santa Cruz counties, regardless of school choice.