Lynden School District has picked five potential candidates to fill the open superintendent position.
Rainier Christian Schools superintendent Bruce Kelly is one candidate up for the position. He has worked in education for more than 30 years at Christian and public schools throughout Washington. He has his doctor of education and master of education from Seattle Pacific University.
Tavis Peterson is currently an Assistant Superintendent at the Wapato Public Schools in eastern Washington. He has roughly 20 years of experience in education.
Lisa Riggs has been the superintendent of Sweet Home School District in Oregon since August 2021. She has worked in education for more than 30 years throughout California, Oregon and Washington. She received her bachelor’s degree from Washington State University and her master’s of education from the University of Victoria.
Mike Snow, an employee of Lake Stevens School District for nearly 17 years, is currently their Executive Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and educational leadership, respectively, from Western.
Lynden Assistant Superintendent David VanderYacht is also vying for the position. He began with the district in 1992 as a teacher and received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Western Washington University.
The five candidates will interview on March 26 starting at 9 a.m. The district is allowing the community to watch interviews and will provide a link for a virtual viewing option. At the end of the day, three will be picked to spend a day with the schools and field questions from the community at forums at Lynden Middle School from 6:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. on March 28, 29 and 30.
On March 31, the district will announce its selection for the next Lynden School District superintendent.
Last year, 111 people participated in a focus group for the superintendent search. They discussed challenges of community polarization, COVID-19 reentry, social media and growth in the school district. They said they were looking for a superintendent with strong communication skills, a successful career in education and experience with passing bonds and levies. They want someone that fits into the community, is approachable and listens.
Mike Stromme has served as the interim superintendent of Lynden Schools since July 1, 2021. He joined the district from Vancouver Public Schools.
Northwest Leadership Associates helped the school district recruit qualified applicants for the position.
