Griffin School Board Announces Kirsten Rue as Superintendent.
Good Afternoon,
After a thorough interview process which included students, district staff, parents, Squaxin Island tribal leadership and Griffin/Steamboat community members, we as a Board were faced with a difficult decision in selecting our next Superintendent, but Monday morning, we ultimately selected Kirstin Rue.
Ms. Rue has lived and worked in the greater Olympia area for the past 28 years. After completing her undergraduate studies at Washington State University in 1996, she started her career in public education as a middle and high school teacher in the Olympia School District, serving both Capital High School and Jefferson Middle Schools. She finished her master’s in educational leadership at the University of Washington in 2005 and was hired as a building administrator by the North Thurston Public Schools. Initially, NTPS hired Ms. Rue as an assistant principal at North Thurston High School and then selected her to lead Chinook Middle School in 2009, as principal, where she served for the next twelve years. During her tenure at Chinook, Ms. Rue worked with building leaders to deliver on impactful academic initiatives. In 2021, Ms. Rue accepted a position as North Thurston Public Schools’ Director of Student Achievement. In that role, she led a district-wide restorative practices initiative, oversaw discipline and attendance practices, mentored principals, and led professional development for staff. In 2022, she completed her superintendent credential through Washington State University.
On the personal front, Ms. Rue is a recent “empty nester,” having raised two boys who are currently finishing up their collegiate studies. She loves the outdoors and enjoys long bicycle rides, camping, and gardening. She has traveled to quite a few different corners of the world, and welcomes the opportunity to connect with new places, people, and cultures.
Ms. Rue’s reputation is that of a visionary leader who builds shared goals and strong collaborative relationships. She is well-regarded by those who have worked with her as a creative problem solver and skilled staff developer for affecting desired change within the educational systems where she has served. Ms. Rue is eager to bring her passion, expertise, and commitment to public education to her new role as Griffin’s superintendent.
I'm confident Ms. Rue will lead the district by strengthening relationships, providing structure, strategic planning, and move us forward in a direction our students need to thrive and succeed.
I want to thank everyone who supported the selection process by spending time with the candidates, attending the community forums, asking thoughtful questions, and submitting your feedback.
Please help me welcome Kirstin Rue as Griffin's Superintendent, effective July 1, 2024 (subject to successful contract negotiations). We are looking forward to her transition to Griffin.
Sincerely,
Julie Osterberg
Chair, Griffin School Board