Ron Higgins named Interim Principal for Walla Walla High School

Walla Walla Public Schools announced Pioneer Middle School Assistant Principal Ron Higgins has been named interim principal of Walla Walla High School for the 2017-2018 school year. Dr. Kenneth Renner-Singer and Justin Lieuallen interviewed for the position June 8 and were not selected after a comprehensive and inclusive staff and community process.

"I'm looking forward to returning to Walla Walla High School where I began both my teaching and my administrative careers,” said Higgins. “My experiences at Wa-Hi over the years have been so great and influential in developing who I am as an educator and as a person.  I consider myself blessed to have this opportunity to serve as interim principal of this amazing school, and to support its outstanding students, staff, parents, and the entire Blue Devil community."

Higgins has an extensive professional background at Walla Walla High School dating back to 1985 when he began his career as a math and computer science teacher. Most recently, Higgins has served as Assistant Principal at Pioneer Middle School since 2014. Prior, he served as an Assistant Principal at Walla Walla High School as well as the district's Director of Assessment and Technology. He holds a Master’s of Educational Administration Degree from Washington State University and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Mathematics Education from Carroll College. Higgins is active in Junior Achievement, deeply involved in the Walla Walla community, and when not participating in school, church or local events, you may see him on the court as a referee for the Blue Mountain Officials Association.

“We are thrilled to have a leader of Ron Higgins’ caliber step up and lead Walla Walla High School in this time of amazing opportunity and growth,” said Superintendent Wade Smith. “His integrity, character and positive spirit are a perfect fit for Walla Walla High School as we strive to realize our vision of Developing Washington’s Most Sought-After Graduates.”

Higgins will remain at Pioneer Middle School in his current role through the end of the school year. Long-time Walla Walla High School science teacher, and current Walla Walla High School Administrative Intern, Rob Ahrens will serve as Interim Assistant Principal at Pioneer Middle School for the 2017-2018 school year.

The district will initiate a comprehensive search for Wa-Hi's permanent principal replacement next school year, with the intent of naming its finalist by early spring 2018 and assuming leadership onJuly 1, 2018.