News

Washougal School District Superintendent Dr. Mary Templeton has been selected as the new superintendent of the Lake Stevens (Washington) School District (LSSD), effective Monday, July 1. 

“Dr. Templeton brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership, having dedicated the past 30 years enhancing student achievement in both large and small school districts,” according to a news release issued by the LLSD. “Her strategic approach to instructional leadership, and her commitment to authentic engagement have yielded transformative results. Dr. Templeton’s role as superintendent of Washougal School District showcased her ability to lead educational initiatives and to collaborate effectively with students, employees, families, community stakeholders—including educational policy makers and legislators.”

Templeton, who grew up in the Portland area and attended the University of Oregon, began her education career by teaching German, English and drama for 15 years. She then served as a dean of students and an assistant principal before leading the human resources department in Spokane Public Schools. She was hired as the WSD’s superintendent in 2018.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Templeton to our district,” said Mari Taylor, president of the LSSD board of directors. “Her proven track record of fostering academic excellence, and her commitment to harnessing student voice, and deepening engagement align with our Foundation for Excellence and the strategic goals we have set for our future.”

The LSSD board selected Templeton after “a comprehensive search process by the board of directors, district employees, students, families and community representatives,” according to the news release, which added that participants attended focus groups and interviews and provided feedback through nearly 400 digital and paper feedback forms.

“Among a pool of highly qualified candidates, Dr. Templeton truly stood out,” Taylor said. “Her visionary leadership, unwavering passion for education, and exceptional skill in building relationships set her apart. Dr. Templeton is not only eager to lead our district, but is deeply committed to becoming an integral part of our community.”

Templeton will oversee the daily operations of LSSD, including management of its $176 million budget; more than 9,400 students; 1,200 employees; 11 schools; and numerous special programs and partnerships. She will assume the position from Ken Collins, who served the district in a variety of capacities for the past 34 years before announcing his retirement earlier this year. 

The Washougal School Board “is proud of Templeton’s tenure in Washougal and her dedication to seeing the district rise during the six years she has served as superintendent,” according to a news release issued by the WSD.

“Through the last six years, Mary has consistently focused on increasing student achievement and opportunities,” said Washougal School Board president Angela Hancock. “Her determination to see our students and our district rise to our full potential has led to the highest graduation rate on record.  The board deeply appreciates her steady leadership throughout some of the most difficult years we have seen in public education.”

Templeton’s passion for serving the whole child led to a focus on engaging students in artistic, creative, vocational, and athletic pursuits that help students develop skills needed to be successful in the workplace.  

“She has helped the Washougal community navigate a number of unprecedented challenges,” the news release states. “ Through her steady leadership, our district has emerged from the pandemic with strong community support, committed staff, and a vision for a bright future for every student.”

The Washougal School Board will meet to create a plan on filling the superintendent position, share information with the community once its decisions are made, the press release states.

Lake Stevens is located in Snohomish County, about six miles west of Everett, and has a population of roughly 35,000 people.