CAMANO: School Board appoints Ryan Ovenell as Superintendent
The Stanwood-Camano School District posted this in the News section of their website on Tue., June 3, 2025.
The Stanwood-Camano School Board during its regular meeting Tuesday, June 3, officially appointed Ryan Ovenell as superintendent of the Stanwood-Camano School District.
Ovenell has served as interim superintendent since Jan. 1, 2025, leading with a steady hand during a time of transition. A Stanwood High School graduate and longtime district educator, Ovenell brings a deep understanding of our schools and community — as well as a clear, student-centered vision for the future.
“I’m incredibly honored to serve the district that helped to shape me,” Ovenell said. “We are focused on making sure every student is seen, supported, and prepared for the future of their choice — and that starts with listening to our community and staying true to the goals we’ve all committed to.”
He began his career in the classroom and later served as principal at Lincoln Hill High School, Lincoln academy and Saratoga School. At the district level, he took on roles as Executive Director of Human Resources and Deputy Superintendent before stepping into the interim leadership role earlier this year. That range of experience gives him a unique perspective on what students, families, and staff need to thrive.
Ovenell’s approach is rooted in the district’s Strategic Plan, a community-driven roadmap for student success. Even as interim superintendent, he continued advancing the plan’s key priorities, including building a strong foundation for early learners, eliminating achievement gaps through individualized growth and support, and ensuring every student graduates with a clear path to a fulfilling future.
As superintendent he said he is committed to increasing student achievement and graduation rates of our future-ready graduates through standards-focused instruction, data-driven supports, and strong partnerships with families and educators. At the same time, he will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of both students and staff by strengthening our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), maintaining safe and inclusive school environments, and ensuring every student feels a sense of belonging. This important work will be rooted in high expectations and a shared commitment to student success, he added.
“We have talented students, dedicated educators, and a supportive community,” Ovenell said. “By staying focused on what matters — strong instruction, safe and welcoming schools, and a clear plan for the future — we can create the kind of school system our kids deserve.”
School Board president Al Schreiber said the directors’ vote reflects their confidence in Ovenell’s ability to lead with integrity, transparency, and purpose.
“Appointing Ryan Ovenell wasn’t just about continuity — it was about confidence,” Schreiber said. “Over the past several months, Ryan has shown us exactly the kind of leadership our district needs: steady, student-focused, and deeply rooted in our community’s values. The community survey also made it clear that the best person for the job was already here — and already doing the work with integrity and purpose. The board unanimously agreed.”
Ovenell’s contract will begin July 1, 2025, and run through June 30, 2028. He holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from Antioch University, a superintendent certificate from Seattle Pacific University and is a current doctoral student at Western Washington University.
In the days and months ahead, Ovenell said he plans to continue visiting students in schools, engaging families and the community, and working alongside staff to implement the district’s strategic priorities.
On the Ballot in November 2025
| STANWOOD-CAMANO SCHOOL DISTRICT NO 401 |
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| Director, District 1 John W. Russell Hans Hendricksen Incumbent Al Schreiber did not file to retain his seat |
| Director, Position 2 Charlotte Murry Write-in: Ram Prasad |
