Unified School District No. 232 is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Tyler Hays as the next principal at Mize Elementary, effective with the 2026–27 school year. His appointment was formally approved by the Board of Education at its regular meeting on Monday, March 2.

Hays will succeed Mrs. Gerri Balthazor, who announced her retirement earlier this school year after 31 years in public education.

Hays’s appointment follows a comprehensive search process conducted by the district, which drew interest from over 20 applicants. As part of the process, Human Resources also surveyed families and staff to identify the qualities and leadership characteristics most important in a principal.

“USD 232 is pleased to have Tyler Hays join Mize as the new principal,” said Susan Doyle, Chief of Personnel. “Tyler’s experience in instructional leadership and team development will be a strong asset for both students and educators at Mize. His commitment to data-informed school improvement will be a driving force to elevate the academic success for all students.”

Hays brings over 10 years of experience in education, including time as a teacher, building leadership team leader, and, most recently, assistant principal.

“I am excited to join Mize Elementary as the new principal,” Hays shared. “Mize Elementary represents strong traditions of excellence, community partnership, and student-centered learning. Together, I am confident we will continue growth and achievement for students and staff.”

Hays will connect with Mize Elementary families in the coming weeks to welcome students and parents to the 2026–27 school year.

Hays earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Teaching from Northwest Missouri State University and a Master of Science in School Leadership from Baker University. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Baker University. Tyler began his teaching career in 2015 as a fifth-grade teacher in Leavenworth, Kansas. From 2016 to 2022, he taught 5th–8th grade science, social studies, and literature in Lansing, Kansas, followed by a fifth-grade teaching role in Overland Park, Kansas, for the 2022–23 school year. In 2023, he returned to Lansing and currently serves as assistant principal. Tyler and his wife, Laura, are proud parents to their son, Benny, and share their home with a goldendoodle named Bucky.

About USD 232

USD 232 welcomes approximately 7,400 students each day (early childhood through grade 12) at 14 campuses, with seven elementary schools, three middle schools, two high schools, Cedar Trails Exploration Center, and The Bridge. The district encompasses nearly 100 square miles in northwest Johnson County and draws from the communities of De Soto, Shawnee, Lenexa, a portion of Olathe, and unincorporated areas of the county.