Knowing that Superintendent Conrad Robertson planned to retire in June 2013, the Riverview School District Board began a superintendent succession planning process last fall. The result of the process is that Dr. Anthony Smith, the assistant superintendent, will assume the lead role at the district when Robertson officially retires. “Dr. Anthony Smith will not only continue to lead the Riverview School District in the positive direction we’ve been going, but will bring a perspective of keeping student achievement at the forefront of everything we do.  His passion for lifelong learning, coupled with his commitment to our community, make him a terrific choice to lead our district for years to come,” commented board member Danny Edwards.

During the planning, the school board hired consultant Rich Parker of McPherson and Jacobson to help create and lead a process. They held community and staff forums, and published an online survey for public input on what the school district needed in its next leader.

Parker interviewed key staff stakeholders, as well, and presented their input to the board, which interviewed Smith during the executive session of a special board meeting called June 18. They formally offered Smith the position at the June 26 meeting, and Smith gladly accepted, saying “I appreciate the trust and confidence the board has that I will make a positive difference as the future superintendent.”

Dr. Smith has worked in the district for the past 18 years and has among his accomplishments: presented at state and national conferences and universities on topics such as assessment, communications, conflict resolution, strategic planning and human resources; received the Christa McAuliffe Award from Washington State for excellence in teaching; served as acting superintendent in the district; served as principal of the Riverview Learning Center; was director of the district’s human resources program; and created district teaching and learning, and professional development programs.  He holds a Superintendent Endorsement Certificate, a doctorate in educational leadership, a master’s degree in education and bachelor’s degrees in music education and music performance.