The Glendale Union High School District (GUHSD) Governing Board has selected two finalists in its search for the district’s next superintendent: Mr. Matthew Belden and Dr. Gareth Diaz Zehrbach.

Mr. Matthew Belden currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Athletics for the Glendale Union High School District (GUHSD). With a distinguished 25-year career in education, he has made significant contributions to GUHSD, where he has held various positions including teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal. He also played a key role in the district’s Curriculum and Instruction Department as the Administrator for School Safety and Academic Support, where he oversaw Title Funds and school improvement initiatives.

Beyond his leadership in GUHSD, Matt extends his impact statewide as the President of the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) Board.

A proud product of GUHSD, Matt and his wife both grew up in the West Valley, attended Glendale Elementary Schools, and graduated from Glendale High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon, and a master’s degree from Ottawa University. Passionate about academic excellence, Matt remains committed to making a positive impact for GUHSD students, staff, parents, and the GUHSD community.

Dr. Gareth Diaz Zehrbach, an alumnus of Greenway High School within the Glendale Union High School District, brings over two decades of educational leadership to his candidacy for the Superintendent position. Currently serving as Deputy Superintendent of Administrative Leadership & Services for the Deer Valley Unified School District, he oversees 42 schools, including five comprehensive high schools, all of which have achieved “A” ratings.

Dr. Zehrbach has emphasized safe and supportive learning environments, enhancing the district's Safe Schools division and leading the district to achieve Model PLC District status. During his tenure, the high schools have recorded unprecedented success in athletics, band, and Career and Technical Education, winning numerous state titles in recent years.

Holding a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Zehrbach combines extensive experience and a strong commitment to serve as an effective advocate for excellence for the students and communities of GUHSD.

As part of the selection process, GUHSD faculty/staff and community members are invited to meet and hear from both finalists at a Community Forum on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 6 p.m. The event will take place at the Moon Valley High School auditorium, 3625 W. Cactus Rd., Phoenix.

Following the forum, the Governing Board will interview the two finalists on Wednesday, February 19, 2025.