Deputy Superintendent, Chris Larsen

Dr. Larsen brings decades of experience in public education, with a career spanning classroom teaching, school leadership, and executive administration. She currently serves as the Executive Director of Human Resources in Highline Public Schools, where she has led major initiatives to recruit, support, and retain educators and staff while ensuring that district policies and labor agreements align with student success.

In addition to her extensive work in human resources, Dr. Larsen has deep knowledge of public school finance and operations. She was entrusted with temporarily stepping in as Chief Financial Officer for Highline Public Schools, leading key financial initiatives and presenting budget proposals to the school board during a leadership transition. Her expertise in contract negotiations, labor relations, and strategic staffing has been widely recognized by her colleagues, including strong recommendations from her superintendent, direct supervisor, and school board leadership.

Dr. Larsen earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Washington and has dedicated her career to fostering collaborative leadership, equitable access to opportunities, and student-centered decision-making.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Larsen has personal ties to the Yakima area, making this transition especially meaningful. She and her husband, Christopher (yes - Chris and Chris), have two adult sons and enjoy traveling, playing strategy-based board games, and spending time outdoors.