DRiving The Community Forward – Bill Runey Named One of Education Insider Magazine’s Top 15 Superintendents of 2026

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District has announced that Superintendent Bill Runey has been named one of Education Insider Magazine’s Top Fifteen School District Superintendents of 2026, a national recognition honoring leaders who are redefining excellence in education.

The feature displays how Runey’s recognition reflects not just his strong leadership abilities, but also the collective effort of an entire community. As a matter of fact, Runey learned a great deal of his leadership abilities from his parents. His dad was a teacher, coach, and athletic director who created environments built on respect. While his mom was a school nurse who always represented a calm demeanor, strength, and compassion. 

“My parents, both educators, didn’t talk about leadership in formal terms, but they modeled it every day, through work ethic, humility, and how they treated people. They taught me that relationships matter, that you show up for others, and that you take pride in doing things the right way. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career,” said Runey. 

“In education especially, leadership isn’t about position, it’s about trust. It’s about being visible, being consistent, and surrounding yourself with great people. I’ve been fortunate to work with an incredible team here in Dighton-Rehoboth, and any recognition like this really reflects the collective work of our staff, our students, and our two communities,” said Runey. 

Under Runey’s leadership, Dighton-Rehoboth continues advancing its “DRiving Toward 2030” strategic plan which is focused on empowering educators, igniting student curiosity, and preparing students for successful futures. Within D-R’s classrooms today, Runey elaborated upon how this 2030 plan isn’t solely a long-term vision— it’s already currently being implemented within classrooms across the entire community. 

“At the elementary and middle school levels, it can be as simple—and as meaningful—as giving students a voice and a sense of ownership. A great example is the recent ‘Name the Falcon’ contest, where students helped shape something that represents our district. Moments like that build confidence, creativity, and connection—skills that matter just as much as academics,” Runey said. 

“At the same time, we’re deeply focused on meeting the needs of every learner. Whether it’s through strong special education programming, inclusive practices, or the individualized support our students rely on, we’re committed to making sure every student has access to meaningful learning experiences and feels a true sense of belonging,” Runey said. 

“As students move up, those opportunities expand into Early College, Career and Technical Education, and the thoughtful use of technology and AI. But the foundation stays the same: engage students, challenge them, support them, and help them see themselves as capable of shaping their future. ‘DRiving Toward 2030’ isn’t something that lives on paper; it’s happening every day, from our youngest learners to our seniors. That’s who we are. Together, we are DR,” Runey added.

Runey’s biggest hope is that D-R finishes the year strong and continues to build momentum.

“This is always a busy stretch, but it’s also a time when a lot of great things come together—academic growth, performances, athletics, and celebrations. I want our students to stay engaged and take pride in their progress, and for our staff to feel empowered and recognized for the impact they make every day,” said Runey. 

“We’ve built something special here, and I’d like us to carry that energy right through the end of the year. At the same time, we’re continuing to work closely with our communities to ensure that this momentum is supported and sustained moving forward for our students and staff,” said Runey. 

“And on a personal note, I’m grateful for the recognition—but it really belongs to the people who show up every day for our students. That’s what makes We Are DR—words we live by,” Runey added. 

This recognition adds to several national acknowledgments Runey and D-R’s district have received, including the National Leaders of Distinction Award from District Administration Magazine and a Best Managed School District for 2025 feature in Business View Magazine.

Read the full article here: https://www.educationinsidermagazine.com/cxoinsight/bill-runey-nwid-882.html