Meet Kevin Sartor
I have led Soldiers as an Army Officer, earned a Master's in Public Administration, and chaired the Surprise Planning and Zoning Commission. I have contributed to the City of Surprise's growth plan as part of a fellowship for the City of Surprise. Currently, as the Safety Coordinator for Dysart Unified School District, I ensure K-12 education's highest safety standards.
My Story
Retired Army Officer Kevin Sartor has dedicated his life to the service of others. Born and raised in Phoenix, Kevin has over 20 years of military experience and extensive work with the city of Surprise, known for his adaptability, critical thinking, and unwavering dedication to preserving our American way of life.
In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, Kevin heeded the call to defend America, enlisting in the U.S. Army, as a forward observer. Within a few months, Kevin found himself deployed to Iraq, fighting the Global War On Terrorism. Through two deployments totaling 27 months, Kevin led over 1,000 hours of combat missions, demonstrating courage and leadership under fire.
After returning from his deployments, Kevin continued his military journey, serving as a Drill Sergeant, training America’s sons and daughters to fight for our Country. Recognized for his leadership potential, Kevin was selected to become one of just 75 Drill Sergeant Leaders in the entire United State Army.
Furthering his education, Kevin completed a Bachelor's degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, equipping him with the knowledge to address both the practical and ideological aspects of security in the 21st century.
Returning home and joining the Arizona Army National Guard, Kevin earned a commission as an Army Engineer. He is most proud of securing state and federal funding for a crucial infrastructure project in a remote village in Alaska. From inception to completion, Kevin led a joint-service training mission, extending a runway for a native tribe, stimulating economic growth and supporting long-term prosperity.
Returning from Alaska, Kevin served as a company commander and completed a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Grand Canyon University, where he learned how to recognize and address modern issues about policy and governance. He also used his leadership and engineering background to serve on and chair the Surprise Planning and Zoning Commission. While on the commission, Kevin gained an in-depth understanding of growth and community development throughout the city.
Retiring from the Army, Kevin earned project management and leadership certificates from Cornell University, completing coursework which further developed his strategic and tactical skills leading high-functioning teams.
Continuing his public service journey, Kevin began a fellowship opportunity with the City of Surprise. Collaborating with city officials, he played a key role developing the city's strategic growth plan through 2040. This immersive experience provided Kevin with a deeper understanding of the interconnected goals of Surprise and what it takes for our city’s long term success.
Currently serving as the Safety Coordinator for Dysart Unified School District, Kevin ensures the highest standards of safety and security in K-12 education. Utilizing an all-hazards approach, he collaborates with regional public safety and community partners, keeping our schools and kids safe.
In addition to Kevin’s professional endeavors, he has volunteered in community organizations such as the Shadow Ridge Booster Club, Girl Scout Troop 1093, served on the Dysart Override Committee in 2020, and was a volunteer youth coach in Surprise for five years.
Kevin currently resides in Greer Ranch with his incredible wife of 18 years, Sarah, who is an Assistant Principal in the Dysart School District, along with their two amazing daughters and son who has carried on the family tradition of military service and is currently deployed to Kuwait with the Arizona Army National Guard.