At a special board meeting on April 20, 2022, the Kent School District (KSD) Board of Directors named Mr. Israel Vela as the next superintendent. During his more than 30 years as a leader in education, it is his experiences that have led him to pursue one of the most important and critical positions in the greater KSD community, which is successfully preparing students for their futures. He has first-hand knowledge of how critical it is to have support and high expectations that ensure all students are prepared to be highly skilled and productive citizens. Mr. Vela has served as the Interim Superintendent since August 2022 and provided outstanding leadership during this transitional period.

“First and foremost, it is an honor to serve our students, families, staff, and community in this role. I am excited by the bright future for this district as we continue working together in creating high expectations for all students and providing the resources students need to achieve their educational goals and dreams. To continue serving with our staff and partnering with our families and community organizations to make a difference every day in the lives of our children, is both a privilege and my sincere commitment to this community,” said Mr. Vela. “I thank the Board of Directors for this opportunity to continue successfully preparing all students for their futures.”

Mr. Vela was chosen after an extensive superintendent search process conducted by McPherson and Jacobson, LLC that culminated in three finalists visiting the district and participating in virtual interviews, staff meetings, and town halls. All stakeholders were invited to attend meetings, ask questions, and provide feedback by completing a survey or emailing the school board directly.

After devoting many hours to reviewing the qualities and characteristics desired in a new superintendent from the community engagement input, discussion, and stakeholder feedback, the Board of Directors selected Mr. Vela as the next Kent School District superintendent.

School Board President Leslie Hamada is excited for this next step in the district’s future. “The Kent School District has been blessed to have such outstanding and qualified employees in every part of our organization. In the last few selections, the board searched for a new leader and chose one outside the district. Building and bringing forth our own and retaining them is something we should encourage in all areas going forward. Making sure our district reflects and represents the make-up of our community is extremely important. As a spokesperson for the entire board, it gives me great pleasure to announce that the Kent School District Board of Directors has selected a member of our community who has called Kent home for years. He has years of experience, plus adds to the district by speaking dual languages. Going forward, it will take our entire community to get behind Mr. Israel Vela, our next superintendent, to make it rise to a top district in the state. Please join me in formally welcoming him into his new position,” commented School Board President Leslie Hamada.

Read Mr. Vela’s complete biography to learn more about his exceptional experiences that prepared him to be the next superintendent.

The Board of Directors and Mr. Vela are beginning contract negotiations. His tenure will begin as soon as negotiations are complete.

Article Source: Kent Meridian High School