White Salmon Valley School District

WSVSD Announces New Superintendent Hire

 Following executive session at its Tuesday, May 30 meeting, the White Salmon Valley School District (WSVSD) Board of Directors voted unanimously to move forward in contract negotiations with a new Superintendent.  Rich Polkinghorn, a White Salmon resident and current Superintendent in Hood River, was selected by the Board following an extensive interview process.  “I loved my years in Hood River but am thrilled to be joining the district where my children attend.  I am excited to work to bring educational excellence to every child in the district,” said Mr. Polkinghorn.

The WSVSD is facing a difficult financial situation and emphasized the value of strong fiscal leadership when recruiting candidates.  When asked, Board chair Alan Reitz said “As a Superintendent, Rich has overseen a budget of approximately 100 million dollars in a nearby district.  His experience managing budgets as both a Superintendent and Principal made him a terrific choice to ensure the long term financial stability of the district.”  

“We are thrilled to have Rich join the WSVSD” said Laurie Stanton, Board vice-chair. “Rich has been a coach, teacher, vice principal, principal, and superintendent.  He is bilingual. He is from White Salmon, raised his children in this district and is committed to our long term success.”