The future is now for the new leader of the freshly formed East Jordan School District.

Dave Doty, 43, will start his job as the district's first superintendent Sept. 8.

"I want to ensure a world-class education for every student in this school district," Doty said in an interview with the Deseret News Tuesday night after receiving unanimous approval from the board.

Public education is critical to the strength and health of our communities, he added.

The board selected Doty over the other top candidate, Granite School District assistant superintendent Martin Bates.

Doty is currently assistant commissioner and director of policy studies with the Utah System of Higher Education, which pays approximately $116,000 a year. As superintendent he will earn $175,000 annually.

Board members praised Doty, specifically mentioning his impeccable credentials, good heart, leadership ability, care for students and youthful excitement.

"We are making history and everyone is watching us," said board member Sherrill Taylor.

In addition to board members, several members of the audience spoke, including representatives of the PTA and district associations.

"Dr. Doty — hurrah! We applaud you. This is our future — right here and now," said Kristi Ellis, head of the Sandy Small District Chapter.

One the new superintendent's goals is to encourage students to aim for college.

"We need to develop good partnerships between public schools and colleges," Doty said. "We need to do more to help make college affordable."

Doty, who grew up in Iowa, earned a bachelor's degree in Spanish from Brigham Young University where he also earned a law degree and doctorate in educational leadership. He has master's in education from Stanford. He has practiced law in three different firms, focusing on education law and representing public schools and school districts.

"He's been preparing for this for a long time," said his wife Rori, a registered nurse.

In November, east-side residents voted to leave Jordan School District and form their own school district.

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E-mail: astewart@desnews.com