District Plans Farewell Reception Honoring Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith (Photo) -06/06/25
WALLA WALLA – Walla Walla Public Schools invites the community to a special farewell reception in honor of Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith, who will be concluding his distinguished nine-year tenure with the district.
Event Details:
• Date: Tuesday, June 17
• Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. (immediately following the School Board meeting)
• Location: Anne Golden Boardroom, District Office – 364 S. Park Street
Dr. Smith has served Walla Walla Public Schools with exceptional leadership and vision since 2016. During his time as superintendent, he has led transformative efforts that have elevated student achievement, strengthened community trust, and positioned the district as a leader in public education across Washington State.
Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Smith oversaw the development and implementation of two Strategic Plans, including the district’s current Vision 2030, centered on preparing “Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates.” Under his leadership, the district achieved a record-high on-time graduation rate of 94.5%, including a nearly 20% increase for Hispanic students—a milestone that reflects his deep commitment to equity and student success.
Despite unprecedented challenges such as a global pandemic and fiscal uncertainty, Dr. Smith has ensured the district’s financial health, maintaining an 11% fund balance reserve and an Aa3 credit rating from Moody’s. His leadership was instrumental in passing the largest bond in district history—$120 million, approved by 73% of voters—along with multiple successful levies, and the district’s first-ever Capital Levy to improve outdoor and athletic facilities. All commitments were met on time and within budget, with $320,000 in bond savings returned to taxpayers.
A passionate advocate for early learning and bilingual education, Dr. Smith helped secure funding for the district’s Transition to Kindergarten initiative and expanded the award-winning Dual Language program, ensuring students are prepared for a globalized future.
Dr. Smith's expertise is recognized at both state and national levels. He has served on numerous boards, including the Washington Association of School Administrators, Schools Insurance Association of Washington, and the Gates Education Roundtable, and he has presented widely on topics ranging from educational finance to district branding.
In 2021, Dr. Smith was honored with the Robert J. Handy Most Effective Leader Award for large school districts in Washington, a testament to his impact on closing the opportunity gap and improving outcomes for all students. He was also recently honored by the Southeast Washington Association of School Administrators Region 123 with an Award of Merit.
As Dr. Smith’s final day approaches, Walla Walla Public Schools expresses its deepest gratitude for his visionary leadership, tireless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to students, staff, and families.
We warmly invite all staff, families and community members to join us in celebrating Dr. Smith’s legacy and wishing him well in his future endeavors.
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Attached Media Files:
Dr Wade Smith.jpg,
