The posting
Position Description for Richland School District, Richland, WA
The Board of Directors for the Richland School District in Richland, Washington, is seeking a highly qualified leader to serve as Superintendent. The Board wishes to have the successful candidate assume the responsibilities of the position by July 1, 2027.
McPherson & Jacobson, L.L.C., Executive Recruitment and Development, has been engaged as the consultant in a search for outstanding candidates. They will assist the Board of Directors in identifying and screening the candidates.
Apply online at: www.macnjake.com
Enrollment: Approximately 14,300 students
Location: Richland and West Richland, Washington- located at the confluence of the Columbia, Yakima, and Snake Rivers in Benton County (part of the Tri-Cities metropolitan area).
District Description: Richland School District serves a vibrant, forward-thinking community known for its strong culture of innovation, science, technology, and community pride. Spanning early learning centers, elementary schools, middle schools, comprehensive high schools, and alternative/specialized learning options, the district is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, whole-child development, and strong career and college pathways. The Board seeks a visible, decisive, student-centered leader who will partner effectively with the Board of Directors, engage collaboratively with staff, families, and community partners, and lead continuous system-wide growth and operational excellence.
Qualifications and Criteria:
- Decisive, Student-First Leader: Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to filtering every decision through a "what is best for kids" lens; acts as a proactive, courageous, and composed decision maker who anticipates unintended consequences, takes ownership of tough choices, and leads with personal integrity and accountability.
- Exemplary Governance Partner: Fosters a united governance team with the Board, strictly respecting the distinct roles of the Board versus the Superintendent while executing Board-aligned goals through objective metrics and consistent policy compliance.
- Proactive & Balanced Communicator: Keeps all Board members informed in an equitable, timely, and transparent manner; models exceptional active listening and transparent multichannel communication to resolve conflict and build trust across staff, families, and the broader community.
- Accountable & Systems-Oriented Strategist: Proven track record of executing strategic plans with measurable benchmarks, balancing innovation with established district strengths, delegating effectively, and holding systems and staff accountable.
- Academic Achievement & Whole-Child Focus: Results-oriented instructional leader skilled in utilizing data to accelerate student achievement, support diverse learning programs, and balance rigorous academics with arts, athletics, and CTE pathways.
- Visible Community Champion: Maintains high visibility and genuine approachability throughout schools, classrooms, and community events; actively leverages strong partnerships with local civic, business, and higher education leaders to benefit district programs.
- Steward of Operations & Capital Assets: Demonstrated expertise in school finance, bond and levy oversight, facility modernization, operational safety, and collaborative labor relations.
Requirements:
The candidates must:
- Hold or be eligible for a Washington State Superintendent Credential/Certificate;
- Have proven central office cabinet or superintendent experience, as well as building-level administrative experience;
- Possess an advanced degree in Educational Leadership (preferred);
- Have the ability to know, understand, and apply Washington state education law, finance, and policy;
- Demonstrate a clear desire to make a sustained, long-term commitment to the Richland community and be highly visible and engaged throughout the district; and
- Meet other qualifications as determined by the Board.
Total Compensation: Regionally competitive based on education and experience, with an expected annual base salary range of $230,000-$275,000, plus a competitive benefits and fringe package. Full contract development and negotiation will occur following finalist selection.
Search Timeline:
- Application Window Closes: January 4, 2027
- Board of Directors Selects Finalists: January 26, 2027
- Candidate Interviews: Week of February 1, 2027
- Selection of New Superintendent: Week of February 8, 2027
- Start Date: July 1, 2027
Contact Information:
McPherson & Jacobson, L.L.C.
11725 Arbor Street, Suite 220
Omaha, NE 68144
888-375-4814 / 402-991-7031
Email: [email protected]
Consultants:
Heidi Sipe [email protected]
Mike Scott [email protected]
School Website: https://www.rsd.edu/
Richland School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The district does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to designated youth groups. Anyone requesting reasonable accommodation in the application or recruitment process should contact McPherson & Jacobson at the address, phone, or email above.



