Dr. Justin Ainsworth, the newly hired and incoming superintendent of North Thurston Public Schools (NTPS), has announced his resignation, triggering a new round of interviews to fill the post.
“Since accepting the position, circumstances within my family have shifted significantly,” Ainsworth explained, “making it clear that I cannot fulfill my duties as Superintendent while also prioritizing my family's well-being.”
Ainsworth announced his resignation during the school district’s board meeting yesterday, April 23, at Woodland Elementary School.
“The Board has accepted the resignation of Dr. Ainsworth,” NTPS Board President Gretchen Maliska said in a statement sent to The JOLT. “While we are disappointed, we understand his decision to prioritize his family.”
NTSD slated Ainsworth to start on July 1, a day after outgoing superintendent Dr. Debra J. Clemens’ last day of duty.
Immediately after Ainsworth’s announcement, the school board convened to discuss options, and had the hiring consultants, Ray & Associates, contact the two candidates who applied with Ainsworth.
Dr. Thu Ament and Troy Oliver, finalists in the final round of applications that hired Ainsworth, have agreed to be reconsidered for the position.
Ament is deputy superintendent for the Sumner-Bonney Lake School District, while Oliver is assistant superintendent of operations for the school district.
“The Board will continue the process with the other two finalists on Thursday, April 25, during a special board meeting with executive session,” Maliska announced.
The meeting will be open to the public. After that, the board members will retire into an executive session and are expected to announce their decision.
“I am truly sorry for any inconvenience my departure may cause,” Ainsworth closed, “and am committed to assisting in the transition to ensure minimal disruption to the district's operations.”
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