Submitted by North Thurston Public Schools
After a search process that included input from staff, families, students, and community members, the North Thurston Public Schools (NTPS) Board of Directors has voted to select Dr. Justin Ainsworth as the next superintendent, pending his acceptance.
“Dr. Ainsworth’s leadership philosophy, instructional experience, and passion for equitable and high-quality education opportunities for all students make him the right person to lead NTPS into the future,” said NTPS Board President Gretchen Maliska. “The Board is confident in his ability to keep student success at the center of all we do.”
Maliska expressed the Board’s gratitude to the community for its participation throughout the superintendent search process, which began in January. In February, the Board conducted focus groups with staff, students, parents, and community partners to gather input on the priority characteristics for the next NTPS superintendent. Community members also shared their thoughts via an online survey.
The Board received 29 applications for the position. They reviewed video submissions from 11 applicants, interviewed seven semi-finalists, and brought the three finalists in for a full day of community meetings.
The three finalists toured NTPS schools and met with staff, students, and community members.
Dr. Debra Clemens’ final day as NTPS superintendent will be June 30, 2024, and Dr. Ainsworth will begin work on July 1. For more information on the NTPS superintendent search, visit the North Thurston Public Schools website.
About Dr. Ainsworth
Dr. Justin Ainsworth is associate superintendent in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District in Palmer, Alaska. With two decades of experience in public education, Dr. Ainsworth has been driven by the belief that the students who need the most deserve the best. Throughout his career as a teacher, principal, and district leader, this mantra has guided his efforts. He has dedicated his career to advancing equity and eliminating opportunity gaps for underserved students, ensuring that every learner has access to a high-quality education. Dr. Ainsworth earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Southern Oregon University, a master’s degree in teaching from Pacific University, and a Doctor of Education from William Howard Taft University.
