A Message from Superintendent Dr. Kristine Michael: Our Focus on Integrity, Transparency, and Achievement
Since joining North Mason School District in the fall, Superintendent Dr. Kristine Michael has been spending time listening to families and community members and closely reviewing district operations, academics, and finances. This work has helped sharpen the district’s focus around three clear priorities: Integrity, Transparency, and Achievement.
These priorities reflect what our community has shared is most important and will guide our work now and into the future.
Integrity
Fiscal responsibility is central to serving students well. Over the past six months, district operations, staffing, and spending have been reviewed with one guiding question: Does this directly support student achievement?
As a result of this review:
The district is proactively reducing costs by approximately $1.3 million
Two district administrative positions are being eliminated, with reductions made furthest from the classroom
These positions will not be replaced, regardless of the outcome of the April 2026 levy
Community feedback gathered following the November 2025 levy results also played an important role. Based on that input, the district revised its levy request by $3.4 million less than the previous proposal. If approved by voters, the proposed levy would replace the Educational Programs & Operations (EP&O) levy that expired at the end of 2025 and keep the tax rate well below the average 2025 school EP&O levy rate in Mason County.
Transparency
Families and community members are essential partners in our work. North Mason School District is committed to sharing information regularly through the district website, ParentSquare notifications, social media, and superintendent communications.
In addition, the district is launching its first Community Fiscal Oversight Committee, which will meet quarterly with district leadership to review financial information and support transparent, responsible spending.
Community members are also invited to attend upcoming opportunities to ask questions and learn more:
Levy Informational Community Forum – Thursday, April 2, 6:30 p.m., District Office
Coffee and Conversation with Dr. Michael – Friday, April 17, 8:00 a.m., District Office
Cookies and Conversation with Dr. Michael – Saturday, April 18, 9:00 a.m.
Soup with the Superintendent – Tuesday, April 28, 11:30 a.m.
Achievement
The district is renewing its focus on student outcomes in reading, math, and graduation. Leadership is reviewing student performance data to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
Beginning in the 2026–27 school year, the district plans to transition to a semester schedule at the secondary level, adding 35 instructional hours per year in core academic classes.
Additional efforts include:
Strengthening graduation requirements
Expanding on‑campus, college‑level course opportunities
Recruiting and retaining excellent teachers and staff
Investing in student programs and services that support attendance and engagement
North Mason School District remains committed to working in partnership with families and the community to support students and keep our schools strong. Questions and feedback are always welcome.
👉 Learn more about district priorities at northmasonschools.org/priorities