Superintendent – Shelton, WA
Job Description
Our Community and District
Cultivating a safe, inclusive, supportive learning environment that engages the whole student in a community that promotes collaboration, communication, and academic achievement through critical thinking and problem-solving. Reaching our highest potential. Together.
The Hood Canal School District is located at the arm of Hood Canal on the Olympic peninsula at the base of the majestic Olympic Mountains. It lies in the heart of unparalleled natural beauty, where the Skokomish River is home to salmon. Lake Cushman has hiking, picnicking, and camping vailable and where Lake Kokanee offers great rainbow trout fishing. The abundance of fish, shellfish, deer, and the occasional cougar make our area spectacular. Life is good (and slower and more peaceful) in the Hood. Water sports abound and the celebrations of the area draw visitors year-round: Oyster Fest, Thunder on the Canal, Fjordin’ Crossin’, and the Polar Plunge are just a few. Alderbrook Golf Course is up on the hill while the Alderbrook Resort is down on the water. Hood Canal provides the best in Washington living!
The Hood Canal School resides at the intersection of Highways 106 and 101. It is nestled within the Skokomish Tribal Lands but is not a reservation school but rather public school. It is a Title I school that has 350+ students in grades preschool through eighth grade. Its unique student body is eflected in the diversity of its teachers, paraeducators, and support staff. The physical building is upgraded, technology is a strong component of our learning environment and plans are underway for expansion including a new transportation building, designated Early Learning Center, and adjacent Stream Junior High School. Our School Board, community and staff collaborate to bring the very best educational opportunities to our children. There have been generations of families who have attended or worked at Hood Canal – we are a family. It’s a wonderful place to live and work; we hope you come join us!
Job Summary
Hood Canal School District seeks a qualified, highly visible, collaborative superintendent to work closely with the school board, students, staff, families, and the community to ensure success for every student.
Experience with district level responsibilities and familiarity with superintendent expectations within a smaller school district and community context is also desired. Hood Canal seeks a candidate that can communicate effectively to all entities to promote greater understanding, transparency and unity.
District Leadership/Teamwork: The Hood Canal School Board is dedicated and committed to the effectiveness of the district in serving all students and families. They are seeking a superintendent to work with them to provide responsible governance, effective leadership, clear communication, and academic excellence.
Skilled Communicator and Problem-Solver: The ability to facilitate problem-solving processes where people feel heard and respected is essential.
Engaged and Visible: The Board seeks a leader who is visible and approachable who is committed to becoming actively involved in schools, events, and the life of the Hood Canal Community.
Minimum Qualities/Qualifications
Master’s Degree
Current WA State Superintendent Certification (or ability/willingness to obtain)
Prior experience as a classroom teacher and school administrator
Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
Aware of recent state legislation for public schools and corresponding local impacts
Demonstrated experience with data-driven planning and assessment processes
Exceptional leadership, 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 and transparency
Demonstrates a growth mindset and values continuous improvement
Preferred Qualities/Qualifications
District level administrative experience in P-12 education
Experience partnering with community members and local organizations in support of public education
District experience with operations, including financial services, transportation, food services
District experience with facilities planning and school funding (levies/bonds)
Experience working closely with a Board of Directors
Strengths and Opportunities
Pending: HYA is currently gathering input from students, staff, families and community members regarding strengths and challenges/opportunities facing the district as well as the most important leadership qualities and characteristics desired in the next superintendent. This input will be used to develop a Leadership Profile Report that will be used by the Board in making screening and selection decisions.
Application Requirements
1. Cover Letter
2. Resume
3. Completed Application Form
4. Copies of WA State Certificates
5. Letters of Recommendation from a minimum of 3 References
Application Process and Timeline
Application Deadline: April 21, 2023
Announcement of appointment: Early May
Superintendent begins: July 1, 2023
Confidential Inquiries Please Contact
Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates, Search Consultants:
Dr. Kristine McDuffy Dr. Gene Sharratt
360-391-4934 509-670-3222
kristinemcduffy@hyasearch.com genesharratt@hyasearch.com
Compensation
The Hood Canal School District Board of Directors will negotiate a compensation and benefit package that is regionally competitive based on education and experience.
