The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

WAITSBURG – After holding preliminary interviews with five candidates, the Waitsburg School Board invited a lone candidate, Dr. Jon Mishra, back for a final interview for the position of Waitsburg Schools District Superintendent. As The Times went to press on the evening of Tues., March 28, Mishra was scheduled to meet the public at the elementary school library, followed up with a second school board interview.

Dr.Mishra is currently employed at the Hermiston School District as the Executive Director of Special Programs. His background includes considerable experience in education, administration, and athletics in both large and small school districts in Washington and Oregon.

Mishra earned his bachelor's degree in secondary education and social studies from Oregon State University and his masters in interdisciplinary studies (special education, education, history) from Western Oregon University. He received his principal certification through City University in 2000 and his Ed D. in educational leadership management in 2012 from Capella University.

Mishra has worked for the Hermiston School District since 2009. He was middle school principal from 2009-2011, and was Director of Operations and Business Services from 2011-2014, before accepting his current role as Executive Director of Special Programs.

He has also been employed as a middle school principal in Coos Bay, Ore., Building Administrator (principal, assistant principal, dean of students) in Spanaway, Wash., special education teacher and coach at Spanaway Jr. High.

At the Powers School District he was a secondary teacher, district-wide counselor, and coach, prior to becoming the district athletic director.

Mishra was slated to spend Tuesday meeting with district school staff, students, and business leaders before visiting with the public that evening, followed by another board interview.