OLYMPIA — Aug. 17, 2026 — The Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) is pleased to announce that members have elected Dr. James Everett, superintendent of the Anacortes School District, as WASA President-elect for 2026–27. Everett will assume the presidency in July 2027 following the term of current president Tabatha Mires, assistant superintendent of the North Central ESD 171.

Everett has been an active member of WASA since 2013 and has served the association in a variety of roles, including WASA Region 108 President/Co-President, Washington Early Career Superintendent Mentor and as a member of WASA’s AASA Legislative and Finance Committee.

“James is a thoughtful and intentional leader who is deeply committed to public education and to the people who lead our schools and districts. Throughout his involvement with WASA, he has consistently looked for ways to connect with and support other leaders, advocate for programs and people and help make our association a place where every member feels welcomed and valued. His colleagues know him as someone who listens, builds relationships and steps forward to serve,” said Jeff Snell, WASA Executive Director.

Everett emphasized the importance of ensuring school leaders across Washington have opportunities to connect and support one another as they navigate increasingly complex challenges. While districts differ in geography, enrollment and community context, he believes education leaders share a common purpose of serving students and communities while sustaining strong systems of support for those doing the work.

“I am incredibly honored to have the opportunity to serve an organization and a profession that have meant so much to me throughout my career,” Everett said. “Our districts and communities may look very different across Washington, but we share a responsibility to serve every student well. I want WASA to continue being a place where leaders feel connected, supported and valued and where we use our collective voice and experiences to make public education stronger. This is an opportunity to listen, learn and serve alongside leaders from every part of our state.”

As WASA president, Everett’s goals will include:

• Strengthening connections, mentorship and collaboration across regions, roles and communities to support new and experienced leaders and reduce isolation in the work.

• Elevating student voice, belonging and engagement by advancing practices that center students and ensure their perspectives inform decisions.

• Advocating through diverse perspectives and shared experiences to help leaders address financial constraints, enrollment shifts, workforce challenges and other emerging demands.

• Developing and supporting leaders for the future by helping current and aspiring leaders navigate complexity, build their capacity and remain connected to the communities they serve.

Everett became superintendent of the Anacortes School District in July 2026 after serving as superintendent of the Meridian School District from 2018–26. His career in public education spans more than three decades, including service as a teacher and principal before becoming superintendent, serving in Nooksack Valley, Bellingham, Meridian - and now Anacortes School District.

Dr. Everett holds a doctorate in educational leadership and superintendent certification from the University of Washington, a bachelor’s degree and principal certification from Western Washington University, and master’s degrees from City University in Seattle. In addition to his WASA service, Everett serves as chair of the Washington Schools Risk Management Pool and as a board member of the Chuckanut Health Foundation.