Dr. Tonya Merrigan is a skilled educational leader with more than 30 years in education that began as a math teacher. Merrigan assumed the role of Blue Valley Schools Superintendent in the summer of 2020, making her the eighth Blue Valley superintendent and the first female superintendent in district history. Since joining Blue Valley in 1999 as a high school counselor, Merrigan has held a variety of positions of increasing responsibility, including assistant principal, associate principal, district administrator for Virtual Education, director of Student Programs, executive director of Curriculum and Instruction, assistant superintendent of Academic Services and Deputy Superintendent. Dr. Merrigan has earned several accolades as Superintendent, including recognition from Alpha Kappa Alpha's 'Strengthening Our Sisterhood" initiative, being named Honor Administrator of the Year by the Kansas Music Educators Association and completing the AASA National Superintendent Certification Program.

Dr. Merrigan earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of South Dakota, and a doctorate degree from Saint Louis University. A long-time staff member and supporter of Blue Valley Schools, Dr. Merrigan considers it is an honor and a privilege to serve the Blue Valley community. She describes her leadership style as team-centered and looks forward to working closely with the dedicated Blue Valley staff and community of supporters to meet the district’s strategic efforts and help all students achieve personal success.