SEPTEMBER 2025 | DR. CHRISTINA KISHIMOTO
Dr. Susana Reyes is entering her fifth year as Superintendent of the Shoreline Public Schools in the state of Washington. She continues to serve on the Washington State Board of Education and is the President of the Washington Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (WALAS).
Learn more about Dr. Reyes’ journey to the Chief Executive seat, her perspective on staying focused during this hyper politicized time, and hear her advice for women aspiring to the Superintendency.
Enjoy the conversation with Dr. Kishimoto and Dr. Reyes below.
The following transcript has been edited for length and clarity.
Dr. Kishimoto (Host)
Hello everyone, I’m Dr. Christina Kishimoto, and you are with us Under the Flamboyan. Today I’m joined by Dr. Susana Reyes, superintendent of Shoreline Public Schools in the state of Washington. Welcome, Susana!
Dr. Reyes:
Thank you. I’m so happy to be here.
Dr. Kishimoto:
Before we dive into the new school year—how was your summer? Anything exciting?
Dr. Reyes:
It was wonderful. I had some good family time and enjoyed the weather. Of course, we were also busy with district work. Like many districts, we faced financial challenges, so we ran a supplemental levy. The first half of July was calm, but the second half was full of community engagement and preparation for Election Day on August 5. Thankfully, it passed—that was definitely exciting.
Dr. Kishimoto:
That sounds about right—summers are never quite long enough for superintendents! I always remind myself we have to take time for family and rest. I spent a few days hiking Mount Hood with my daughter, who just turned 25. But once school begins, there’s no slowdown.
You’ve been in this role five years now, and I know from experience how exhausting and rewarding it can be. What led you to the superintendency? Were there moments in your career when you thought, I can do this—I want to lead a district?
Dr. Reyes:
Absolutely. My journey started when I met a Latina school principal early in my career. At the time, I was working as a clerk typist, unsure of my future. She walked in, confident and in charge, and I thought, If she can do it, I can too.Representation mattered—I saw myself in her.
