Ryan Bodensteiner announced as new director of the Center for Evaluation and Educational Leadership

LAWRENCE — The Achievement & Assessment Institute (AAI) at the University of Kansas has announced Ryan Bodensteiner as the next director of the Center for Evaluation and Educational Leadership (CEEL), a center within AAI that supports district and building level leaders in creating and sustaining effective learning environments for students. 

As the director, Bodensteiner will work closely with schools and districts to evaluate needs and develop personalized support plans that range from strategic plans and leadership training to bond issue planning and building facility assessments. 

“It is a privilege to join CEEL during such a pivotal time for education,” Bodensteiner said. “By bridging the world-class research of the University of Kansas with the practical realities of school leadership, we have a unique opportunity to provide the customized, evidence-based support our partners need to maximize student and staff success.” 

Bodensteiner succeeds former CEEL Director Bart Swartz, who now serves as AAI’s growth officer and guides strategies to broaden the organization’s reach. 

“Even within a large pool of excellent candidates, Ryan’s experience and knowledge stood out to me, and I am excited to see him take on this new role,” Swartz said. “He has the collaborative and energetic mindset that will help CEEL grow as a center dedicated to educational leadership and excellence.” 

Bodensteiner has extensive experience in educational leadership as a teacher, principal and assistant superintendent. In his most recent position as the assistant superintendent of learning services for Leavenworth Public Schools, he oversaw strategic planning, needs assessments, principal supervision and evaluation and federal/state reporting. 

Bodensteiner also oversaw the district’s Kansas Education Systems Accreditation, a state accreditation that ensures every school system in Kansas is improving outcomes for students. 

Bodensteiner will begin his new role as CEEL director in July.