This transcript has been edited for clarity and length.
Under The Flamboyan | November 2025 Edition
Dr. Christina Kishimoto:
Hello everyone, it’s Dr. Christina Kishimoto, and welcome to Under the Flamboyan. I’m so excited to be joined today by Dr. Alexa Allman, Superintendent of the Deer Park School District in eastern Washington. Alexa, it’s great to have you here.
Dr. Alexa Allman:
Thank you so much, Christina. I’m happy to be here. Deer Park is about 20 to 25 miles north of Spokane. We’re on the east side of the state, separated from western Washington by the Cascade Mountains. On our side, we get all four seasons — hot summers, cold winters, and right now, a beautiful fall. It’s rural — lots of farmland, space, and a close-knit community.
The Third-Year Perspective
Dr. Kishimoto:
You’re now in your third year as superintendent. How does this year feel compared to the first two?
Dr. Allman:
It’s different in the best way. The first two years are all about listening and learning. By year three, you’ve built relationships, clarified your vision, and now it’s time to implement. We’ve set our goals and are holding each other accountable to reach them.
You also start to feel more grounded — your board knows you, your staff knows you, and you know your community. There’s a confidence that comes from understanding the people and the rhythm of the work.
A Small District with Big Spirit
Dr. Kishimoto:
Tell us about your students and the culture of Deer Park.
Dr. Allman:
We’re a small district of about 2,700 students, and because of that, our kids do so many things. They’re busy — and they’re deeply involved in the community. The opportunities they have compared to what I had growing up are amazing.
They’re at school from early morning until late at night, whether it’s FFA, DECA, sports, or other activities. The chances for students to engage outside the regular school day are phenomenal, and they take advantage of every one of them. When I hear what they’re involved in, I’m amazed — and I often say, “How do you fit academics into your day?”
A Journey Across Washington
Dr. Kishimoto:
You spent many years in the Bellevue School District before moving to Deer Park. How did that shape your leadership?
Dr. Allman:
I grew up professionally in Bellevue — I was there 19 years as a teacher, principal, and HR director. It’s large, urban, and incredibly diverse. The experience gave me a deep appreciation for equity-driven leadership and for understanding how systems work.
Coming to a smaller, rural district was a big change, but the heart of the work is the same: building relationships, listening to the community, and doing what’s best for kids.
Finding Connection and Support
Dr. Kishimoto:
How do you stay supported as a superintendent?
Dr. Allman:
I’m lucky to have a strong network of colleagues across the state — people like Dr. Ivan Duran, Dr. Consi Pedroza, and Dr. Susana Reyes. Having worked on both sides of Washington, I’ve built friendships with leaders in both eastern and western regions.
A few of us — women superintendents of color — have also formed our own small group. We check in, share ideas, and remind each other that we’re not alone in this work. Leadership can feel isolating, but that sense of community keeps you grounded.
Choosing the Seat
Dr. Kishimoto:
What led you specifically to the superintendent role?
Dr. Allman:
I actually never set out to be a superintendent. When I was in my certification program, I thought, “I don’t think I want that job.” But while serving as assistant superintendent in Deer Park, I got to see our board in action. They were focused, student-centered, and completely in it for kids.
When my predecessor moved on, I already had those relationships built — with the board, our unions, and the community. I knew the work and I knew the people, and that gave me confidence to say yes.
The Roots of Leadership
Dr. Kishimoto:
Looking back, what shaped the way you lead today?
Dr. Allman:
I think I’ve always been drawn to teaching. As a kid, I’d play school all summer with my stuffed animals and leftover dittos from my teacher. Education was always my path.
I was also adopted, and my parents divorced when I was young. There was tension, and I often played the role of mediator. I learned early how to listen, how to bring people together, and how to stay calm in the middle of conflict. Those experiences made me a relational leader.
I’m naturally driven and goal-oriented, but I try to lead with empathy. People matter most — that’s how I approach every decision.
Navigating Policy and Politics
Dr. Kishimoto:
Education leadership today is deeply shaped by politics and policy. How do you approach that side of the work?
Dr. Allman:
No one goes into education for politics — but you quickly learn that policy impacts everything we do. We’re navigating federal, state, and local systems that don’t always align.
I didn’t expect that part of the job to be so consuming, but it’s become a big piece of our work — from funding and legislation to community expectations and social media. I’ve had to learn how to communicate policy in a way that connects with people’s values.
What helps me is coming back to my “why.” I got into education for kids — all kids. That’s the moral imperative that keeps me steady. When policy or politics gets complicated, I ask, “What’s best for students?” That question cuts through the noise every time.
Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders
Dr. Kishimoto:
Many of our viewers are aspiring women leaders. What advice would you give them about pursuing the superintendency?
Dr. Allman:
Know who you are and what you stand for. If you don’t, this job will test you until you figure it out. Stay true to your values and remember your why — because it’s easy to get lost in the day-to-day.
Be prepared for the scope of the role. In a small district, I oversee HR, transportation, maintenance, communications, special education, and more. It’s a lot, but it’s rewarding because you see the full picture and how every part connects to student success.
And most of all — build your network. Leadership doesn’t have to be lonely. Surround yourself with people who remind you of your purpose.
Closing Reflections
Dr. Kishimoto:
Thank you, Alexa. Your story is such a beautiful reminder that leadership, even when complex, can stay rooted in authenticity and heart.
Dr. Allman:
Thank you, Christina. I’m in it to win it for kids — all kids.
Dr. Kishimoto:
We’re grateful for your leadership. Thank you for being with us on Under the Flamboyan.
To learn more about Voice4Equity and the upcoming When Women Lead 2026 Conference, visit voice4equity.com.
