ESD 123 is proud to announce that the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) has named Michelle Whitney, Superintendent of the Pasco School District, as the 2026 Washington State Superintendent of the Year. The annual award recognizes exemplary leadership among Washington’s superintendents and honors those who demonstrate outstanding service, vision, and commitment to public education.
In announcing this year’s selection, WASA Executive Director Jeff Snell highlighted Whitney’s steadfast commitment to advancing educational equity, strengthening community partnerships, and creating opportunities for every student to succeed.
“Michelle Whitney’s leadership in the Pasco School District shows what it truly means to put students at the center of everything we do,” said Snell. “Her leadership has brought a sharper focus on individual student success - expanding access, lifting student voices, and building a culture of belonging that has improved outcomes and strengthened community trust. Michelle leads with grace, courage, and compassion - qualities that inspire everyone around her to do the same.”
“Through her vision and collaborative leadership, Pasco has become a model for what’s possible when systems are built on relationships, respect, and shared purpose,” Snell added. “Congratulations to Michelle and the Pasco School District community on this well-earned distinction. Her leadership and integrity embody the highest standards of the superintendency.”
For Whitney, the recognition holds profound meaning, not just for her personally, but as a celebration of her team’s collective commitment to serving students and communities with purpose and heart.
“Being named Washington State’s Superintendent of the Year is a deeply meaningful honor - one made even more special knowing I was nominated by a member of the Pasco School Board of Directors and selected by peers from across the state,” she said. “This recognition is not just about leadership; it’s about the power of public education to transform lives. I am proud to lead from a place where stories matter - where the challenges we carry become the foundation of our purpose, and where service, not spotlight, defines our work.”
Whitney has served as superintendent of Pasco School District since 2016, leading a district of more than 18,800 students and 2,250 employees in one of the most diverse and rapidly growing communities in eastern Washington. Under her leadership, PSD has implemented transformative initiatives that have expanded opportunity, strengthened community trust, and redefined what student-centered education looks like in Washington state.
Whitney has focused her leadership on breaking down barriers to student success and fostering meaningful connections across the Pasco community. Under her guidance, the district has expanded equitable access to academic opportunities, strengthened communication and trust with families, and built lasting partnerships that support every school. Her collaborative and student-centered approach has created a culture where all students are valued, empowered, and equipped to thrive.
Throughout her career, she has been an active and influential leader within the broader educational community. Whitney has served as President-elect, President, and Past President of WASA, as well as a Governing Board Member for both WASA and the American Association of School Administrators (AASA). Her voice has shaped professional learning statewide, emphasizing belonging, dignity, and inclusion in educational systems.
Whitney’s professionalism is reflected in her ability to lead through complex issues with empathy and transparency. Whether navigating curriculum discussions or equity initiatives, she consistently fosters unity and keeps the focus where it belongs—on students.
A Pasco native and lifelong educator, Whitney began her career as a kindergarten teacher, fourth grade teacher, and school counselor before serving as assistant principal, principal, and multiple other district leadership roles. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as principal and superintendent certifications, from Washington State University, and holds an associate degree from Columbia Basin College. Her leadership has earned her numerous honors, including recognition as a 2024 Woman of Distinction by Washington State University Tri-Cities and Columbia Basin College Alumna of the Year.
As the state’s Superintendent of the Year, Whitney will be a candidate for the 2026 American Association of School Administrators (AASA) National Superintendent of the Year Award. The national award will be announced in February during the AASA National Conference on Education in Nashville.
In conjunction with the award, Washington’s Superintendent of the Year will receive a $1,000 check from D.A. Davidson & Company to use toward a school or educational program of their choice.