Stride, Inc. (NYSE: LRN) announced the appointment of Robert Knowling, a current independent member of its board of directors, as chief executive officer, effective July 29, 2026. He succeeds James Rhyu, who has stepped down as CEO and as a member and chair of the board.

Knowling has more than 30 years of executive experience across technology and education. He previously served as CEO of the NYC Leadership Academy and has held leadership roles at Telwares, SimDesk Technologies, and Covad Communications. He has served on Stride's board for more than eight years.

The board also named its lead independent director, Steven Fink, as chair. Brian Shepherd, former president and CEO of CSG Systems International, was appointed to the board on the same date. Shepherd will serve on both the Compensation Committee and the Audit Committee.

Alongside the leadership changes, Stride released select preliminary financial results for fiscal year 2026, ended June 30, 2026. Total revenue is expected to reach $2.52 billion, up from $2.41 billion in the prior year. Income from operations is expected to be $450.8 million, compared with $360.1 million the prior year. Net income is expected to be $338.2 million, versus $287.9 million previously. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be $617.6 million, compared with $571.0 million in fiscal year 2025.

Stride said it plans to report full fourth-quarter and fiscal year 2026 results and file its Form 10-K on August 4, 2026.