A Message from Superintendent Dr. James Everett

As the end of the school year approaches, I want to take a moment to share some important updates and provide clarity on our leadership transition moving forward.

I also want to acknowledge that superintendent transitions can be an uncertain time for school districts. I understand that many of you may have questions about what comes next.

District Leadership Transition

Beginning July 1, the district will have stable and experienced leadership, with Dr. Kurt Harvill assuming the role of interim superintendent.

Dr. Harvill has been with the district since 2011. Prior to joining Meridian, he taught social studies at Mount Vernon High School for 13 years, where he also served as a dean of students and a wrestling coach. During his time at Meridian, Dr. Harvill has held several leadership roles, including assistant principal, athletic director, director of personnel, and most recently, assistant superintendent. He earned his Doctorate in Education from Western Washington University in August 2025. Dr. Harvill brings deep institutional knowledge, strong relationships and a student-centered approach to his leadership.

I have had the privilege of working closely with Dr. Harvill for many years, both as a colleague and a trusted friend. I am confident the district will be in good hands during this transition, and that he will continue to prioritize what is best for students, staff and families.

Dr. Harvill would like to hear from staff, families and community members. If you have a moment, please complete this brief survey. 

School Leadership and Staff Updates

At the end of April, we informed staff that a reduction‑in‑force (RIF) would not be required for the upcoming year. This outcome was achieved through careful budget reductions in materials and supplies, a deliberate focus on staff retention, and internal transfer requests and attrition. Below are staffing updates for next year.

Irene Reither Elementary (IRE)

Earlier this week, we shared with the IRE community that Assistant Principal Nate Beede has accepted a social studies teaching position at Meridian Middle School for next school year. 

Next year, IRE will be supported by two assistant principals. Rebecca Kratzig, Dean of Instruction, and Holly Li, Multilingual Learner Specialist and Administrative Intern, will serve in these roles. Mrs. Kratzig earned her administrative credentials from the University of Washington’s Danforth Educational Leadership Program in June 2025. Mrs. Li is currently earning her administrative credentials at City University of Seattle, with completion expected in June 2026.

As Mrs. Kratzig and Mrs. Li step into these new roles, due to budget considerations, we are not filling the positions they are leaving. 

Meridian Middle School (MMS) and Meridian High School (MHS)

MMS social studies teacher Kristin Garlatz and school counselor Brett Muskavage will join MHS next year, filling vacancies created by the retirements of Steve Lawrence and Don McMains.

We thank both Mr. Lawrence and Mr. McMains for their dedication to MHS and wish them all the best in retirement.

Due to both budgeting considerations and enrollment levels at the middle school, next school year, MMS will have one school counselor. We will continue to have a mental health professional at IRE, MMS and MHS.

Superintendent Search Process

The school board will initiate a superintendent search process in the fall. The board will determine whether to partner with a search firm or conduct the process internally. Regardless of the approach, staff, families, students and community members will have opportunities to provide feedback and input, and I strongly encourage participation.

Typically, superintendent openings are posted during the winter, with interviews and selection occurring in early spring. The board will oversee the entire process and make the final hiring decision for Meridian’s next superintendent.

As a reminder, we have a vacancy for Director District 4. If you know anyone who is interested, please encourage them to apply by 5 p.m. May 22.

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Meridian’s superintendent for the past eight years. Thank you for your dedication to our students, families and community. Together we have built strong foundations grounded in our shared commitments, and I am confident that Meridian will continue to thrive.