Dr. Ricardo “Rocky” Torres-Morales Selected As Superintendent Of Vancouver Public Schools (Photo) - 01/22/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 22, 2026

Dr. Ricardo “Rocky” Torres-Morales selected as Superintendent of Vancouver Public Schools

Vancouver, Wash. — Dr. Ricardo “Rocky” Torres-Morales has been selected as the next superintendent of Vancouver Public Schools. The board of directors announced its decision on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 after interviews with the finalists, candidate meet-and-greets with the community, and gathering feedback through numerous community surveys.

“We are very excited after meeting with many qualified candidates to be welcoming Dr. Torres-Morales to our Vancouver community. We are confident he embodies the qualities the community identified as priorities for our school district, and his experience positions him well to move us forward toward our Vision of a Graduate,” said Board Chair Wendy Smith. 

Learn more about the new superintendent. 

The selection of Dr. Ricardo “Rocky” Torres-Morales as Superintendent is the culmination of an extensive public engagement process and national search conducted by the board with the assistance of search firm, Ray and Associates, that began in August. The process included dozens of community forums, both in-person and virtual, as well as a survey that invited members of the public to share their priorities for the next superintendent. 

The board and search firm reviewed a total of 40 applications submitted from all different regions of the United States. Board members considered and interviewed six top candidates virtually, before selecting four semifinalists at the beginning of January. Those four finalists were invited to visit, meet with community members and leaders, and interview with the board on January 20 and 21. 

Final placement is pending acceptance and final contract negotiations with the school board.  Dr. Torres-Morales will begin his role as superintendent on July 1, 2026.

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