(Lake Tapps, WA) --- At a special board meeting tonight, the Dieringer School District Board of Directors unanimously voted for Michael R. Farmer as the new superintendent to replace Dr. Judy Neumeier-Martinson who is retiring in June.
“Mr. Farmer is an innovative, accomplished leader with an inspirational vision for Dieringer’s future,” said Greg Garrison, board chair. “He has a strong connection to our community, and is committed to Dieringer’s goal of providing all students with appropriate high-quality programs in a safe, challenging and inclusive school environment.”
Farmer is currently the Executive Director of Innovation and Learning for the Eatonville School District. He is a graduate of Eastern Washington University, with a major in education. He earned his master’s degree from Western Washington University, and is pursuing his superintendent credential at CityU Seattle. He has served as a teacher at Kent School District, teacher and administrator at Highline Public Schools, as well as a teacher, principal and administrator with leadership positions in instructional technology at Tacoma Public Schools, before coming to Eatonville.
“It is a great honor to be selected as the next Superintendent of the Dieringer School District,” said Farmer. “I am very excited to join the excellent team of administrators, teachers, and staff serving the community’s students and families. Dieringer’s rich history of community support, excellent instruction, and high achieving students really sets the stage for us to move forward together.”
The board is scheduled to vote on Farmer’s contract on May 28, 2019. A contract with the superintendent will begin on July 1.
During his first 100 days, Farmer plans to listen and learn by visiting with staff, parents and the community, all who hold a strong investment in the success of the Dieringer School District.
“The Board looks forward to welcoming Michael to our Dieringer schools and community,” Garrison said.
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(Lake Tapps, WA) --- The Dieringer School District Board of Directors has identified two candidates to present to the community for the position of superintendent.
The finalists are Michael R. Farmer, Executive Director of Innovation and Learning for the Eatonville School District and Dr. Louanne H. Decker, Executive Director of Principal Leadership and School Programs for the Auburn School District.
The board hired Puget Sound Educational Service District to lead the search for a new district leader.
“The board is thrilled and excited to present two incredible education leaders to the Dieringer school community,” said Board Chair Greg Garrison. “The passion, knowledge and skills each candidate would bring to the position of superintendent will serve us well as we continue our journey of academic and operational excellence.”
Farmer and Decker each will spend a day in the district that will include a tour of schools and the community, meetings with staff, a public meet and greet forum, and a final interview with the Board.
On Monday, May 13 and Tuesday, May 14, the district is hosting two Meet the Superintendent Finalists Community Forums at North Tapps Middle School, 20029 12th St E., Lake Tapps, WA 98391.
· Michael R. Farmer will be available from 5 to 6 p.m., Monday, May 13.
· Dr. Louanne H. Decker will be available from 5 to 6 p.m., Tuesday, May 14.
The public is encouraged to attend the Meet and Greet Forums. Child care will be provided. This will be a fantastic opportunity to meet the final candidates, ask questions, and provide feedback to the board. The board is scheduled to announce its selection of the next superintendent on May 20, 2019 and to vote on the selection at its May 28, 2019 meeting.
Any questions regarding the Meet and Greet Forums should be directed to Greg Garrison, Board Chair, (253) 862-2537.
A contract with the superintendent will begin on July 1.
About the candidates
Michael R. Farmer is a graduate of Eastern Washington University, with a major in education. He earned his master’s degree from Western Washington University, and is pursuing his superintendent credential at CityU Seattle. He has served as a teacher at Kent School District, teacher and administrator at Highline Public Schools, as well as a teacher, principal and administrator with leadership positions in instructional technology at Tacoma Public Schools, before coming to Eatonville.
Dr. Louanne H. Decker is a graduate of Washington State University, with a major in elementary education with a special education endorsement. She earned her master’s degree from Pacific Lutheran University, her superintendent certification at Seattle University, and her doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Washington, Tacoma. She has served as a teacher at Issaquah School District, a teacher, principal and administrator at Auburn School District, and as an administrator at Kent School District.