Frequently Asked Questions

The School Board will work with a search firm to develop a search process that includes engagement with students, families, staff, and the community. The School Board will use that feedback to develop a list of qualities they are seeking in the next superintendent. The search firm will then actively recruit a diverse pool of qualified candidates for the Board to consider. The Board will conduct interviews before voting to select one candidate as the next superintendent.

Search consultants are frequently used by school boards to identify potential superintendent candidates. They bring expertise in recruiting and screening candidates and incorporating stakeholder input into the search process.

The total number of applicants will not be known until later in the process. The board is seeking a diverse pool of qualified candidates from which to choose the next superintendent.

The Board tentatively plans to vote to select the new superintendent by the end of February 2022, with the new superintendent beginning their role in the district on July 1, 2022. These dates are subject to change as the search process continues.

Below are links to policies and guiding documents that offer descriptions of many of a superintendent’s responsibilities. 

• Policy 1620: The Board-Superintendent Relationship 
• Procedure 1620: The Board-Superintendent Relationship Procedure 

In addition to the Desired Characteristics developed through HYA’s engagement with the Highline Community, the following are the preferred qualifications for this position:

• Master’s degree
• Administrative and senior level leadership experience in K-12 education
• Experience as a classroom teacher and school level administrator
• Successful track record in working with districts similar in size and diversity
• Proven experience of working collaboratively with employee unions/associations
• Record of working with an elected or appointed School Board, or similar body
• Experience with strategic plan development and implementation, reflecting the values and needs of the district, including budgeting, development and oversight of long-term fiscal and facilities planning
• Willing to make a long-term commitment to Highline Public Schools