Reykdal to step down as Washington schools chief after 12 years

Chris Reykdal, the superintendent of public instruction for Washington state, announced on Monday that he will not run for a fourth term in the 2028 election. The decision ends a twelve-year tenure that began in 2016. Reykdal, a 54-year-old Democrat and former state lawmaker, served through a period of financial restructuring and a global pandemic.

In a written statement, Reykdal stated that public institutions grow stronger when leadership changes and new voices emerge. He noted that while the state does not impose term limits on statewide offices, he believes officials should set their own limits to create new opportunities. "Public institutions are strengthened when leadership changes, new voices emerge, and those entrusted with public office understand that the position belongs to the people, not to the person holding it," he said.

Reykdal indicated he may pursue another statewide position, a federal role, or leave elective office entirely. He declined to specify his final choice on Monday. If he runs for another office in 2028, he would face an incumbent Democrat in that race. His wife, Kim, and he will weigh these options before making a transparent decision.

Reykdal emphasized that his remaining time in office will focus on securing additional funding for financially strained districts. He listed sustainable school funding, student well-being, academic achievement, and accountability for other elected officials as key priorities. He also highlighted the need to ensure every young person has meaningful opportunities after high school.

Reykdal was first elected in 2016 in a close race against Erin Jones, winning by a single percentage point. He won re-election in 2020 and 2024 with wider margins, defeating Maia Espinoza and David Olson by nearly 10 points in both instances. The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction manages state education laws, curriculum standards, and funding distribution.

His tenure has been shaped by three major events. During his first term, the state increased funding for public schools to comply with the McCleary court ruling. In his second term, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted education, leading to learning loss and a rise in chronic absenteeism. In his current term, he continues to address district finances while navigating a federal administration that has moved to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.