Washougal School Board narrows superintendent search to final four

After receiving 21 applications from all over the country, the Washougal School District will host an open house to introduce the final four candidates to the public.

Their names will be announced on Monday.

As part of the process, the candidates will visit all schools in the district for a series of tours, interviews and meetings next week.

The open house will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14 in the Washougal High School commons, 1201 39th St. The roundtable forum will give community members an opportunity to ask questions of all the candidates.

“The position attracted considerable interest from a high quality pool of applicants,” said Ron Dinius, School Board president. “I am confident that the board will find a first-rate leader to carry forward the tremendous work that has taken place under Superintendent Dawn Tarzian’s direction. The board sought the input of staff and community members to guide our decision making as we proceed through the search process and hire a leader who will set the course for the next chapter of the Washougal School District.”

The applications were screened by BWP and Associates, the firm that the district hired to conduct the search, and the School Board.

Between Feb. 9 and March 24, the board hosted staff forums and community engagement meetings, where input was sought as to the qualifications they would like to see in a new superintendent. Additionally, an online survey was provided to the community, parents and staff to give input and prioritize the qualities they felt were important.

Tarzian announced in February that she will retire as head of the Washougal School District in June. She has served as superintendent since 2011.