Superintendent
Vashon Island School District
Vashon Island School District seeks a highly qualified, collaborative leader to work closely with the school board, staff, families, and community to ensure success for every student. District level experience with instructional improvements, district operations, and effective financial oversight are desired as well as familiarity with Superintendent expectations within Washington State’s public school system. A demonstrated ability to develop and sustain positive relationships with all stakeholders and actively engage in community events, groups, and activities is also desired.
Minimum Qualities/Qualifications
- Master’s Degree
- Current WA State Superintendent Certification (or willingness to obtain)
- Prior successful experience as an educator
- A demonstrated history of responsive and transparent customer service as a leader
- Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
- Aware of recent state legislation and funding system for public schools and corresponding local impacts
- Exceptional leadership and management skills
- Strong interpersonal skills, including transparent and respectful interactions with students, staff, families, and community members
- Demonstrated exemplary communication skills in listening, speaking, and writing
- Models high standards of professional and ethical behavior at all times and operates consistently with integrity
Preferred Qualities/Qualifications
- Successful experience as a superintendent
- District level administrative experience in P-12 public education
- Doctoral Degree (PhD or EdD)
- Experience partnering with community members, consultants, higher education, and local organizations in support of public education
- Experience working closely with a Board of Directors
- Experience in maximizing available funding, securing competitive grants, and leading successful levy and bond initiatives
- Experience bargaining with union groups
About the District
Vashon Island School District is a vibrant school community educating approximately 1,400 students to thrive academically and emotionally. Our curriculum includes programs and courses that reflect our island’s natural beauty, artistic environment, and rich history. The staff is creative and dedicated, and we take pride in delivering the best education our resources can provide. Our small size allows teachers to know each student personally and provide individualized learning opportunities; one reason why our district attracts students who commute to our island each day from Seattle, Tacoma, and the Kitsap Peninsula. The community consistently passes levies and supports its schools through volunteering in the classrooms, providing scholarship funding for students and sponsoring enrichment programs. VISD offers an opportunity to guide a close-knit district, supported by a community deeply committed to the success of its public schools.
About Vashon Island
Vashon Island is a small, tight-knit rural community nestled in the waters of Puget Sound, just a short ferry ride away from neighboring Seattle, Tacoma, and the Kitsap Peninsula. Vashon is home to approximately 11,000 islanders as year-round residents. The island is known for its strong sense of community, thriving arts culture, outdoor recreation and green spaces, and natural beauty.
Strengths and Opportunities
Pending: The School Board has selected the search firm Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates (HYA) to gather input from students, staff, families and community members regarding strengths and challenges facing the district as well as the most important leadership qualities and characteristics participants believe the School Board should consider in selecting the next superintendent. This input will be used to develop a Leadership Profile Report that will be shared with the public and prospective candidates. The report will also be considered by the Board in making screening and selection decisions.
Application Requirements
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Completed Application Form at HYA website – hyasearch.com
- A minimum of three written references
Application Process & Timeline
Application deadline: January 9, 2026
Announcement of appointment: Late February
Superintendent begins: July 1, 2026
Compensation
The Vashon Island School District Board of Directors will negotiate a compensation and benefit package that is regionally competitive based on education and experience.
Confidential Inquiries Please Contact:
Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates, Search Consultants:
Kristine McDuffy, 360-391-4934, [email protected]
John Bash, 360-269-8224, [email protected]
Sylvia Ibarra, 956-534-3958, [email protected]
LINK TO APPLY
