Educational Service District 105 (ESD 105) Selects New Assistant Superintendent - Dr. Alicia Jacob Of The Selah School District (Photo) - 06/12/24

Yakima, WA [June 12, 2024] – The Educational Service District 105 is thrilled to announce the selection of Dr. Alicia Jacob as the new assistant superintendent. Dr. Jacob will replace ESD 105’s current deputy superintendent, Shane Backlund, when he assumes his new role as the agency’s Superintendent on July 1, 2024. 
 

On Friday, June 7, 2024, Dr. Jacob and four other outstanding candidates met with an interview committee of twelve ESD 105 employees, representing the agency’s various departments and programs. Because of her profound commitment to educational equity, innovation, and student success, Dr. Jacob rose to the top. 
 

Of her selection, Dr. Jacob stated, "I am excited for the honor to work with our regional districts to ensure the success of all students. I look forward to building relationships and continuing to offer the opportunities provided by the amazing staff of ESD 105 to meet both the common and unique needs of our educational community.”
 

Dr. Jacob brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience. Throughout her career, Dr. Jacob has strived to create an educational environment that values diversity, celebrates variability, and holds students to high standards. Beginning her career as a mathematics and special education teacher, she quickly recognized the disparities in learning experiences among students and set out to create meaningful change. 
 

As she transitioned into leadership roles, Dr. Jacob focused on prioritizing student-centered learning and creating equitable systems of support across all areas of education. Dr. Jacob currently serves as the Executive Director of Student Learning for the Selah School District. Prior to this position, Dr. Jacob held several other leadership positions in Yakima Public Schools including director and assistant superintendent. Dr. Jacob's leadership is characterized by her commitment to data-driven decision-making, relationship building, and clear communication with all stakeholders. Her vision for education is one where every student feels valued and supported, and where diverse learning needs are met with tailored strategies that promote success.
 

Dr. Jacob embodies ESD 105’s Core Values: embracing transparent two-way communication with active listening, remaining open to change and innovation, and by practicing equity and empathy at the heart of all that she does. ESD 105 is excited for the positive impact Dr. Jacob will bring to the agency and the districts we serve, and we look forward to her innovative leadership in fostering a supportive and equitable educational environment for all.