Dr. Shaun Carey, current Superintendent of the Enumclaw School District, Washington State

Dr. Shaun Carey is an experienced educational leader with more than two decades of service in public education, currently serving as the Superintendent of the Enumclaw School District. His leadership is grounded in equity, shared responsibility, and a commitment to creating systems that ensure student success and staff empowerment. He brings a strong background in strategic planning, instructional design, fiscal and labor management, and is known for leading with integrity, transparency, and a collaborative spirit. Carey's career has included serving as the Deputy Superintendent and in multiple executive roles in Franklin Pierce Schools, where he led initiatives that elevated student voice, academic rigor, and professional learning. He prioritizes mentorship, distributed leadership, and culturally responsive practices that center students who have historically been marginalized and believes in leading by example—modeling ethical behavior and fostering a culture of respect, fairness, and social justice. Throughout his career, Carey has worked to build sustainable systems for continuous improvement, stewarded resources responsibly, and build strong relationships with staff, families, and community partners. He strives to be a responsive, visible leader who communicates with clarity and builds trust across stakeholder groups. Carey is drawn to the Northshore School District because of its reputation for innovation, excellence, and community engagement and is excited about the possibility of partnering with the Northshore community to create a future where every student thrives and every voice is valued. He holds degrees from the Pacific Lutheran University (B.A.), City University (M.Ed.), and Washington State University (Ed.D.).

Dr. Justin Irish, current Superintendent of the Anacortes School District, Washington State

Dr. Justin Irish is in his fifth year as Superintendent of the Anacortes School District, a high-performing district serving 2,500 students. He has prioritized academic achievement, equity, inclusion, social-emotional learning, and strong community partnerships. He has also addressed statewide funding challenges through collaborative, transparent engagement with staff, families, and the broader community. Previously, Irish was Assistant Superintendent in the Edmonds School District, serving over 20,000 students. There, he worked with educators, principals, students, and families to advance teaching and learning, guided by a deep commitment to equity, belonging, and academic excellence. With 25 years in public education—as a teacher, principal, and central office leader—Irish holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Washington. His leadership emphasizes trust, relationship-building, and inclusive engagement. He listens deeply, learns continuously, and leads with integrity. Irish also contributes at the state level, participating in a statewide convening to redesign Washington’s funding model. In partnership with researchers and education leaders, he advocates for equity and sustainability across all school districts. Grounded in inclusion, empathy, and high expectations, Irish builds on system strengths while seeking ways to expand opportunity and improve student outcomes. He fosters environments where students feel known and valued, staff feel supported, and communities are active partners in education. Irish is excited to serve the Northshore School District, drawn to its diverse student population and vision for strengthening community through excellence in education and the belief that every child can achieve academic and social-emotional success.

Dr. Patrick Murphy, current Superintendent of the Olympia School District, Washington State

Dr. Patrick Murphy has served as Superintendent of the Olympia School District since 2017. During his tenure, he has led the development and implementation of a district-wide strategic plan focused on whole student success, emphasizing equity, academic excellence, and well-being. He’s worked collaboratively with his community to expand educational opportunities, implement research-based schedule changes, and maintain high levels of student achievement—all while elevating the physical and mental health of students and staff. Murphy is energized by the opportunity to serve a community like Northshore—one known for its strong educational values and commitment to innovation. He’s excited by the potential to partner with students, educators, families, and community members to prepare every learner for a healthy, productive, and meaningful future. Previously, Murphy served as Assistant Superintendent in the Edmonds School District for five years and as Executive Director of Secondary Education in the Issaquah School District from 2008 to 2012. He’s also served as a high school assistant principal and middle school principal in Issaquah, and as a junior high assistant principal in Bremerton. Murphy began his career teaching social studies in the South Kitsap School District and has taught in higher education as an adjunct faculty member at Seattle University and Western Washington University. He is a past lead of the Thurston County Superintendents Group and a current board member of the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA). He holds degrees from the University of Washington (B.A.), Whitworth University (M.A.T.), and Washington State University (Ed.D.).