"The consensus regarding his positive attributes were: a thoughtful approach to issues, a commitment to collaboration and communication, and a relationship-oriented approach to leadership"
Edie Reclusado, School Board President
The Board of Education for Washington’s Hood Canal School District, located on Skokomish Tribal Land, unanimously approved the hiring of Dr. Lance Gibbon as the District’s new superintendent.
Hood Canal School District serves just over 300 students PK through eighth grade. Dr. Gibbon is an experienced superintendent serving two districts in Washington. His first job as principal was in a small primary school. He recalled fond memories of his experience and the connections he made with the school community. “ I knew each child and family by name and experienced a deep sense of connection,” he stated. Dr. Gibbon went on to say that he missed the family environment, which was a point of attraction for Hood Canal.
Dr. Gibbon joined the District on July 1, 2023. “I look forward to working with the Tribal council on ways we can enrich Native education, increase cultural connections, better serve our kids together,” stated the new leader. Dr. Gibbon also shared his enthusiasm for working with the School Board, noting that they work well together sharing in their dedication to the students, staff, and families of the school community. “Their optimism about the future of the district was inspiring to me,” commented Dr. Gibbon.
The Board shared the enthusiasm of Dr. Gibbon, noting that the reviews of the new superintendent have been positive. “The consensus regarding his positive attributes were: a thoughtful approach to issues, a commitment to collaboration and communication, and a relationship-oriented approach to leadership,” shared School Board President Edie Reclusado.
Hood Canal School District hired Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates to facilitate the search in a process led by associates Dr. Kristine McDuffy and Dr. Gene Sharratt. “Students, staff, families and community members were involved throughout the search process. Dr. Gibbon clearly rose to the top of the applicant pool. His experience in the state; his compassionate approach to leading; and his proven track record of helping each and every student succeed made him an excellent fit for Hood Canal. The district has been through challenging times, but there is a real sense of optimism for the future under the caring and skilled leadership of Dr. Gibbon,” reported Dr. Kristine McDuffy.
Featured Superintendent and Executive Searches
HYA and our associates assist school districts and educational organizations across the nation with superintendent and executive searches. Learn about a selection of recent searches and read what school boards have to say about working with HYA and participating in our K12 search process.
