Superintendent Linn Exline is retiring and Heath Hogan, who is the superintendent for Smoky Valley USD 400, will be USD 305’s new superintendent.

Exline said that her decision to retire came about when she found out her oldest daughter was expecting a baby.

“My husband and I had always said that when we had grandchildren we were going to retire,” Exline said. “I had not planned on retiring for several more years, but that little guy stole my heart and I want to be able to spend time with him.” 

Exline said it is hard to leave something she still enjoys.

 “I am looking forward to spending more time with my family when I retire,” Exline said. “I plan to read, spoil my grandson, spend time with my kids, travel, and go to K-State games.”

Exline has been in education for over 30 years and has been the superintendent since 2019. 

“I am most proud when I see former students experiencing success in their adult lives,” Exline said. “Seeing former students find their passion and happiness is the most rewarding part of this profession.”

Principal Matthew Brungardt said that he thinks Exline has done the most instructionally for the district. 

“I think she really moved the district forward in each of her roles on an instructional level, she took the district to the visible learning initiative that is going on now.” Brungardt said. “She has worked hard to try and make 305 a more attractive place for teachers to come work.”

Gabe Grant is the president of the board of education for SPS (Salina Public Schools). Grant said that the board took into consideration what the community wanted when picking applicants to be interviewed. 

“We are confident that Mr. Hogan will bring strong leadership and experience to our students, educators, and community,” Grant said, “[He will] use his proven track record to build on the foundation of excellence that has been established in SPS.” 

Hogan, who has been in education for 28 years, said that the skills he has learned while teaching transferred over into the next position he was in. 

“Skills like instructional leadership, public speaking, conflict resolution, data-driven decision making, and parent engagement … all started at the beginning of my career in the classroom.” Hogan said. “I have continued to try to hone those skills over time. That has helped me prepare to be in the position to lead SPS.” 

Hogan said he saw this new job as a great opportunity to be a part of a team that would continue to strive toward achieving board goals.

“SPS has many wonderful things happening across the district.” Hogan said. “I will work with the board to establish a clear understanding of their vision for the district and will work to lead the district towards that vision.”