LWSD Board selects Dr. Traci Pierce as new superintendent

Dr. Traci Pierce

I've inserted the italicized paragraphs to Kathryrn Reith's press release for additional insight.  B.Y.

Dr. Traci Pierce, experienced educational leader to continue current initiatives

Redmond, Wash. – At its February 27 meeting, the Board of Directors of the Lake Washington School District unanimously voted to hire Dr. Traci Pierce, the district’s deputy superintendent, instructional services, as the district’s new superintendent. Pending the negotiation of a contract, she will replace the departing Dr. Chip Kimball, who becomes superintendent of the Singapore American School on July 1.

President Jackie Pendergrass reviewed the selection process as follows:  In September, Kimball announced he was leaving the District.  November 7th, the Board conducted a survey of parents, staff, and the community.  December 5th, the Board (with Ravi) after interviews unanimously announced Traci Pierce as their "preferred candidate."  "Meet and Great" meetings were held at Sammamish, Redmond, Kirkland and the District headquarters for staff.  (20-30 people showed up at each meeting).  Twenty-six people submitted comments. BY 

Board member Dr. Chris Carlson said he "believes in brevity" on this, saying he heard little "negative stuff."  BY  Read More >>


Board Member Doug Eglington stressed the need for continuity at this time, advocating for a qualified internal candidate. He noted, “The time it would take to get a new superintendent in place, familiar with our culture and really able to demonstrate their ability to lead our district is time we can ill afford.”

Eglington motioned to hire Traci Pierce as Superintendent this summer.  He said it would have taken 2-3 years to get an outside superintendent up and running.  "Traci will grow into the position; we won't lose continuity." BY

Board Vice President Nancy Bernard seconded the motion and agreed with the need for continuity, noting, “She will not only keep us on track but will bring her own touch to it and bring us even beyond.”

"A strong believer in internal candidates." Nancy Bernard said "Chip has put a lot of trust in Traci over the years."  She said Traci's name came up always.  We'll wait until we see Chip when he comes back in a few years." BY

Board Member Siri Bliesner noted, “I was pleased to hear her [Dr. Pierce] describe her leadership style as one of inclusion and collaboration. She recognizes the importance of public, transparent processes that engage the public early on.”

Siri Bliesner, a new member, wasn't involved in the selection process leading up to the vote, but she had the most to say about her vote for Traci.  A separate piece on Siri's statement will be posted. BY  Read More >>


Board President Jackie Pendergrass noted that in attending the public events introducing Dr. Pierce, at each event she was impressed with “her intelligence, caring, charisma, willingness to listen, and the image she portrays for the school district.”

Pres. Pendergrass said "I was pleased with the city staffs coming down to meet Traci" saying "I think she will do us proud."  BY

Dr. Pierce thanked the board for their kind words and their confidence. She noted her “commitment to the district mission and vision, to serving ethically, honestly and collaboratively for the betterment of the community and our students.”

Traci Pierce emphasised she "made a commitment to serve early on and reiterated that commitment to serve."  Traci recognized the District's strong staff and said she "looks forward to a smooth transition this Spring, appreciating the support of Chip."  Traci concluded "she looked forward to many, many productive years to serving the District." BY

Dr. Kimball expressed that leaving the district after 16 years was bittersweet, thanking the board and staff. He pledged to work with Dr. Pierce to ensure a smooth transition.

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Dr. Pierce has worked in Lake Washington School District since 1994. She taught Language Arts and Social Studies at Inglewood Junior High. After five years in the classroom, she served as Inglewood assistant principal for two years and then was promoted to principal.

Dr. Pierce returned to the central office to serve in several instructional leadership positions before she was named chief schools officer in July 2007. Dr. Pierce has served as deputy superintendent, instructional services, since July 2010.

Dr. Pierce is a graduate of the University of Washington, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. She earned her principal certification and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at City University. She returned to the University of Washington to earn her superintendent’s credential and her Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.

Press release by LWSD Communications Director Reith
Italicized comments and reporting by Yoder