Dr. Anderson leaves behind a legacy of service, growth, and progress toward equity.
Tumwater, WA — January 18, 2023 — Capital Region ESD 113 is preparing for a leadership transition as Superintendent Dr. Dana Anderson has accepted the position of Executive Director of WSIPC, effective July 1, 2023.
Dr. Anderson has worked at ESD 113 for 22 years. Initially hired as a school improvement specialist in 2000, he also served as assistant superintendent of data and technology, assistant superintendent of teaching and learning, and eventually as ESD superintendent, a position he has held for the past 10 years.
During his time at ESD 113, Dr. Anderson defined and created an organizational culture focused on four goals: closing gaps, growing people, influencing change, and eradicating racism. Serving as the superintendent allowed him to nurture and support ESD staff, strengthen relationships with community and school district leaders, and increase the impact of the network of ESDs as an emerging system of statewide support and service delivery.
Dr. Anderson remains deeply committed to the core mission of the ESDs to ensure equal opportunity and outcomes for diverse communities through service and collaborative relationships.
In his new role at WSIPC, Dr. Anderson will support the migration to an updated school data software platform and strive to meet the 2025 goal of full statewide implementation. He also intends to advocate for data systems, shared tools, and resources designed to expand system-wide accountability for equity.
Following the procedure described in RCW 28A.310.170, ESD 113’s board of directors has begun its search for Dr. Anderson’s successor. They are working closely with him, as well as the ESD cabinet and other stakeholders, to ensure a seamless transition of leadership. They anticipate selecting a new superintendent by April 2023.
FAST FACTS
Dr. Anderson’s ESD 113 positions:
- 2000-2002: School Improvement Specialist
- 2002-2006: Assistant Superintendent, Data and Technology
- 2006-2012: Assistant Superintendent, Teaching and Learning
- 2012-2023: Superintendent
Highlights from his ESD service:
- Co-Authored Washington School Improvement Process Guide
- Partnered in the installation of the K-20 network to ensure internet connection for all school districts in the ESD 113 region
- Designed and trained teams on use of online school improvement platform
- Managed the Collection of Evidence project enabling thousands of students to meet Washington graduation requirements through alternative assessments
- Designed and implemented eVAL- Teacher/Principal Evaluation Platform
- Earned a doctorate from the Institute of Education, University College, London
- Redesigned the ESD employee performance and evaluation process
- Initiated Superintendent Learning WALKs
- Defined and created an organizational culture focused on four goals: closing gaps, growing people, influencing change, and eradicating racism
- Supported the growth and expansion of ESD services, doubling the capacity of ESD programs
- Greatly expanded the diversity of the ESD cabinet; hIred the ESD’s first director of communications; first director of diversity, equity, and inclusion; and first female deputy of business and operations
- Supported school districts through the COVID-19 crisis
- Empowered the redesign and expansive growth of the Association of Educational Service Districts Network
QUOTES
“I am eager to build on WSIPC’s track record of excellent service and increase the partnership within our state’s ESD network. With its position as the country’s largest publicly owned K-12 data processing cooperative, I believe it has the potential to dramatically influence systemic reform and remove barriers to student success.” — Dr. Dana Anderson, Superintendent, Capital Region ESD 113
“Dr. Anderson is a dedicated leader. ESD 113 is a better place because of his years of service. We wish him all the best in his new role at WSIPC. We are committed to continuing to build on the progress he has made for this agency, particularly on continuing our progress toward our goals of closing gaps, growing people, influencing change, and eradicating racism.” — Dr. Dale McDaniel, Chair, Capital Region ESD 113 Board of Directors
More Information
About Capital Region ESD 113
The purpose of Capital Region ESD 113 is to ensure excellent and equitable education for all students through service and collaboration. Led by Superintendent Dr. Dana Anderson, ESD 113 provides services for 44 school districts, one tribal compact school, and approved private schools in Thurston, Mason, Lewis, Grays Harbor, and Pacific counties.
Contact
Kristen Jaudon, APR
Senior Director – Communications, Government Relations & Public Engagement
[email protected] | 360-464-6715