Wahkiakum School District selects new superintendent

The Wahkiakum School District Board of Education is pleased to announce Dr. Ralph Watkins’s appointment as the new superintendent. Dr. Watkins brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership and a passion for student success to the district.

Dr. Watkins comes from Angoon School District in Angoon, Alaska, a rural fishing community similar to Wahkiakum. Before Angoon, he served as the superintendent at Hoonah City Schools and as a principal at Bering Strait School District. He has managed a $5 million budget and has experience leading rural school districts.

With over 15 years in education, Dr. Watkins has served in various roles, including teacher, principal, and district administrator. Most recently, he was the Assistant Superintendent of Angoon School District, where he led initiatives in curriculum development, student achievement, and community engagement. His leadership has been instrumental in improving student outcomes and fostering strong partnerships between schools and the communities they serve.

“Dr. Watkins’ experience, vision, and dedication to student success make him a great choice for our district,” said Shawn Merz, president of the Board of Education. “We are confident that under his leadership, our schools will continue to grow and provide excellent educational opportunities for all students.”

Dr. Watkins earned his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Pacific University, a master’s degree from the University of Wyoming, and a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Pacific University. His teaching experience specialized in special education, but he also has experience in K-12 classrooms. His passion for rural school district education is evident in his research and publications, including “The Impact of a Sense of Belonging on Native School Attendance in Rural Remote Alaska.”

When asked about his initial impressions of the district during his interviews, Dr. Watkins shared how he appreciated the small community atmosphere and felt it fit him immediately. Staff who met with him in the open forum were impressed by his interest in individual roles within the district, and he asked what they needed. Teacher union president Shelly Olson commented, “He asked what we (the teachers) wanted, and I liked that.”

Dr. Watkins was the unanimous choice for the board and interview community after fielding over a dozen applications and interviewing two on Feb. 28. He will officially assume his role on July 1, replacing interim superintendent Ric Palmer.

For more information, please contact Wahkiakum School District at https://wahksd.k12.wa.us/.