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Dr. Becky Clifford (EdD, ’18), a graduate of the UW’s Leadership for Learning (L4L) program, has been named the next superintendent of South Whidbey School District. With more than 20 years in public education and a deep commitment to equity, inclusion and special education, Dr. Clifford brings both compassion and vision to her new role. Previously, she served as assistant superintendent in Anacortes School District.

Learn more about Dr. Clifford’s leadership journey in the Q&A below.  

What has excited you about in your new role as superintendent of South Whidbey?

I am really excited about the staff, students, and community at South Whidbey. The district is high-performing and deeply rooted in the community. Its collective voice puts students at the forefront, and its focus on equitable systems, practices, and outcomes truly inspires me. There is a tremendous amount of partnership here, and for a small island district, there are many innovative opportunities for both students and staff. The district's strengths and successes align with my experiences, while the opportunities and future work align with my expertise and core values. South Whidbey has an incredible team of staff, students, families, and community members. I can't imagine living and working in a better place.

Looking back on your time in Anacortes, what are you most proud of?

I'm most proud of our curriculum adoptions leading to guaranteed and viable experiences, resulting in high-quality instruction and increased access for all students to rigorous course offerings. I'm also proud of developing and expanding partnerships to enhance programming, such as partnering with the Anacortes Family Center to strengthen McKinney-Vento services and increase housing stability and student outcomes. Additionally, we expanded mental health and social services and found creative funding solutions for teaching, learning, and student services to ensure program continuity through very challenging budget cuts. Finally, I'm proud of hiring a strong special education leader who transformed our services, family experience, and overall culture in that department.

How did your time in the Leadership for Learning (L4L) program shape your leadership?

The L4L program shaped my leadership through its focus on systems thinking, instructional leadership, and community partnership, all grounded in an equity-focused lens. During my time in L4L, the emphasis was on leading and making a difference, no matter what position you held. I took that to heart, and in each position, I've led with passion and focused on making the biggest impact possible. I believe this approach has expanded my experiences as a leader and truly prepared me to serve as superintendent. While becoming a superintendent wasn't my original plan, as Dr. Soder, former Danforth professor, stated, 'preparation meets opportunity.' In particular, the internship experience with Dr. Gary Cohn really deepened my understanding, experience, and preparation to lead a school district. During my third year, my special interest group (SIG) focused on women in leadership. That's where I really learned to turn inward and listen to my instinct, intuition, and traits that are rooted in the feminine.

What advice would you offer aspiring educational leaders? 

Be true to yourself, care for and recognize those around you, remain curious, and keep learning. Always build, develop, and deepen connections and partnerships. These relationships will elevate collective efforts and greatly expand student opportunities, experiences and outcomes. Each community is different and has a unique makeup. Get to know your community so you can maintain a laser-like focus on equity, using strategies that will make an impact in ways that inspire your community to do and be better.

What brings you joy outside of work? 

My dog, family, and friends bring me the greatest joy. I love going on hikes and beach walks, to the theater, eating at local restaurants, enjoying spa days, traveling, and having quiet times at home.