As Deer Park School District begins the search for a new superintendent, they want to give people an opportunity to provide input on what is essential for the next superintendent to possess. 

Deer Park’s current superintendent, Travis Hanson, has accepted a position at the Mead School District, which will become effective on July 1st, 2023. Hanson has been a member of the Deer Park School District (DPSD) office for eighteen years, with the last decade serving as superintendent.

When discussing the selection of a new superintendent, it’s important to understand the duties and responsibilities of this critical position.

The law requires the superintendent to attend all board of directors meetings and maintain a record of the proceedings. The superintendent is also responsible for keeping accurate records and reports of the district’s financial condition, including all receipts and expenditures of school money. In addition, the superintendent must give notice of all annual or special elections as well as regular and special meetings of the board of directors.

The DPSD Board will meet in a special session this evening at 6pm on March 16th, in the district administration board room located at North 428 Main Ave. in Deer Park to discuss options and next steps. To view the agenda go to: DPGazette.com/t9833.  

The district is seeking feedback from staff, students, families, and the broader community via an online survey to provide input on the qualifications, skills, and attributes they believe are fundamental for the next superintendent to possess. The survey, which will be open through the evening of March 22nd, will gather input on the qualities and attributes stakeholders would like to see in the next superintendent. The district hopes people will take just 3 to 5 minutes to share their thoughts using the following link: https://form.typeform.com/to/BSwvbgDO.

As the school district moves forward in the selection process, it’s clear that the role of superintendent is critical to the success of the district. With the support of the community and the diligent work of the board of directors, the district can ensure that the next superintendent is well-equipped to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of this important position.

Sources:

• Washington State Legislature. “RCW 28A.400.030: Superintendent’s duties.” WA.gov, 5 10 22, https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=28A.400.030. Accessed 15 March 2023.
• Admin. “Superintendent Search Update.” Deer Park School District, 3 15 2023, https://www.dpsd.org/article/1040563. Accessed 15 March 2023
• Harper, Kayanne. “Superintendent Transition.” Deer Park School District, 14 March 2023, https://www.dpsd.org/article/1038354. Accessed 15 March 2023.