An experienced educator from Michigan, Ben Shuldiner, has been named the sole finalist for the role of superintendent of Seattle Public Schools. The Seattle School Board unanimously voted in favor of Shuldiner, with a 6-0 decision made on Wednesday, signaling a new chapter for the district.
Overview of the Selection Process
The board’s decision comes after a thorough search process that included more than 40 applicants. The search culminated in Shuldiner, previously known as “Candidate 7,” emerging as the standout choice. Board President Gina Topp indicated that the confidential nature of the search allowed them to attract a more qualified pool of candidates.
Next Steps for Appointment
The school board will reconvene at a later date to vote officially on Shuldiner’s appointment and finalize contract negotiations. The timing of his start date remains uncertain, though discussions suggest he could begin as early as early 2026. Shuldiner expressed enthusiasm for starting sooner, emphasizing Seattle’s vibrant educational community and its need for effective leadership.
Experience and Qualifications
Shuldiner comes to Seattle after serving as the superintendent of the Lansing School District in Michigan since 2021. His previous roles include being a classroom teacher, high school principal, and an education professor. He has over 25 years in the education sector, and he led Lansing through remarkable improvements in graduation and attendance rates.
- Graduation rates improved significantly.
- Lansing saw its first enrollment increase in three decades.
- He closed a $20 million budget gap and grew the district’s fund balance to over $40 million.
Before his tenure in Lansing, Shuldiner worked within larger school systems, notably the New York City public school system. His leadership experience includes founding the High School for Public Service in Brooklyn and serving on the New York City Board of Education’s Panel for Education Policy.
Challenges Ahead for Seattle Public Schools
Seattle Public Schools is facing several significant challenges. The district is currently grappling with a financial crisis, concerns regarding safety, and a transition period marked by community discontent due to past proposals to close several schools, which were ultimately abandoned. As Shuldiner prepares to step into the role, he acknowledges the historic distrust between the community and the district, highlighting the need for open communication and collaboration.
Goals for the Future
Shuldiner outlined several goals for his upcoming tenure, which include:
- Achieving fiscal solvency.
- Increasing student enrollment.
- Reducing chronic absenteeism.
- Improving graduation rates.
He aspires to position Seattle Public Schools as a premier urban school district in the United States, calling for collaborative efforts to support the community and enhance student outcomes.
The board’s leadership search marks the fourth such endeavor since 2014, underlining the ongoing quest for stable and effective leadership within the district. As Shuldiner prepares to assume his role, there is hope and expectation for transformative improvements in Seattle Public Schools.
