At a special board meeting on February 10, 2026, the Brainerd School Board unanimously voted to select Chip Rankin as the district’s next superintendent. Mr. Rankin is currently the Superintendent of Minnewaska Area Schools in Minnesota.

“This is a pivotal moment for Brainerd Public Schools, and we are confident that Mr. Rankin is the right leader to guide us forward. With Chip at the helm, we are entering a new chapter filled with promise, innovation, and a renewed focus on excellence for all,” stated Sarah Speer, Brainerd School Board Chair.

The school board will conduct negotiations with Rankin, and a contract is expected to be approved at a February board meeting.

The new superintendent's pending start date is July 1, 2026.