School Superintendent Tom Venable answered a few questions from Methow Valley Examiner upon his announcement last week that he would retire after 32 years of service.
What prompted you to retire now?
After a lot of reflection, I’ve decided that this is the right time for me to retire. It hasn’t been an easy decision. As a long-time educator, it is more than a job or a career. It is a way of being. However, as a person who has a broad range of interests, it feels like the right time to embrace a new challenge. I feel good about the progress we’ve made as a district and the strength of the team here. I believe we’ve built a solid foundation, and it feels like the right moment for fresh leadership to take the district forward. It’s time for me to step back and allow the next chapter in my life to unfold, both for me personally, professionally, and for the Methow Valley School District.
Are you planning on staying in the valley?
Yes. My family and I love the Methow Valley. This is the place we call home. We’ve developed deep connections here, both personally and professionally. While I’ll be stepping down from my role as superintendent, I’m excited to continue being part of the community in a new way.
Is there anything you have your sights set on to accomplish this school year?
As with every year, my focus remains steadfast with our students and their success. However, this year in particular, it will be closely followed by my efforts to facilitate a seamless transition in support of the newly appointed superintendent, our students, staff, parents, educational partners, and community.
What are some things you will remember about your tenure?
There are many memories that I’ll take with me – celebrations, challenges, significant events, moments in time – however, for me, the one thing that stands out most is the strong sense of community, the relationships, and the commitment to our students. It’s rare to find a place where everyone—staff, parents, and community members – works so closely together for the benefit of our students. Whether it’s in the form of wildland fires, a global pandemic, budget challenges, or otherwise, we come together and act as one. It’s what sets us apart.
What challenges or issues do you see the next superintendent needing to tackle?
That is a good question. In fact, it may be “the” question I would advise the incoming Superintendent to ask of all key stakeholders as they begin their tenure. Like all school districts undergoing a change in leadership, the next Superintendent of the Methow Valley School District will step into a unique moment in time, an opportunity to hit the pause button and invite others to engage in a process of reflection – where we’ve been, where we are, and where we are headed. It serves as a chance to “listen and learn,” gaining insight into the core values and beliefs that shape us, the successes on which we can build, the challenges our students and families face, what it is that we wish to accomplish in support of the students we serve, and how we do so. This process will be essential in charting a forward-looking course that honors both our history and our future aspirations.
How will we hear updates about the process for the selection of a new superintendent?
The district is committed to keeping everyone informed throughout the search process. We’ll be providing regular updates on our website, through parent newsletters, local media, and in community meetings as the process moves forward.
