The Ridgefield School District announced Wednesday morning it had narrowed its search for a new superintendent to three candidates, all from outside the district.
The district will host a series of in-person forums next week for parents, staff and community members to meet each of the finalists and ask questions.
Each forum will also be broadcast on the Ridgefield School District’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/RidgefieldSchoolsWA. Recordings of each meeting will be posted online afterwards for those unable to attend.
District leaders said last month that while a candidate is expected to be selected in the coming weeks, the new superintendent would not start in the full-time role until after the current school year.
Candidates
The first finalist is Wesley Benjamin, the executive principal of Forney High School in Forney, Texas.
Benjamin holds a bachelor’s degree in theology from Ouachita Baptist University, a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of North Texas and a doctorate in education from Texas Tech University. Benjamin previously worked as a physics and engineering teacher, learning specialist and assistant principal at Forney High School.
“Throughout my career at Forney Independent School District in Forney, Texas, I’ve experienced its growth from 8,500 to over 17,000 students,” Benjamin wrote in his application. “I’ve helped to lead numerous bond campaigns, securing over $2 billion with strong voter support.”
Community members can meet Benjamin between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at View Ridge Middle School.
The second finalist is Asha Riley, assistant superintendent at nearby Woodland Public Schools.
Riley holds a degree in early learning education from Concordia University, a master’s degree in education from City University and a master’s in educational leadership from Washington State University. She previously worked as a teacher in elementary schools in Evergreen and Woodland school districts, and as a professional development administrator in Evergreen.
“My leadership style is rooted in integrity, transparency, and optimism,” Riley wrote in her application. “I prioritize building trust within a team by consistently demonstrating honesty, reliability, and a strong moral compass.”
Riley will be available from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at View Ridge Middle School.
The third finalist is Jenny Rodriquez, assistant superintendent of teaching and learning at the Yakima School District.
Rodriquez holds a bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in teaching and a doctorate in educational leadership from Washington State University.
