Superintendent Communication
Doug Dearden, Superintendent
August/September 2026 Update
“I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.”
I am excited to have the opportunity to serve as superintendent of Trout Lake School District. This is a great opportunity to serve the staff, students, parents, and community that I have grown to love over the past 40 years. For those that do not know, I came to Trout Lake in 1987 as a history and PE teacher. In 2003 I became superintendent and served in that capacity until I retired in 2019. I had no idea that I would ever have the opportunity to serve again in this capacity, but am thrilled about the chance. If I were to state my vision for Trout Lake School District it would be the following simple statements.
Help facilitate a positive environment that supports the whole child: This is rooted in the core beliefs that all have value, and all have strengths that can contribute to the life of others.
Preparing students for life with innovative programs: I have always believed while Trout Lake is small, rural, with limited staff, that we should strive to provide an education that rivals what any student could get in any urban or suburban setting in the state of Washington. — With the support of the community and a wonderful and caring staff you can investigate the many unique opportunities that our students have.
Hiring, retaining and developing a staff that are committed to teamwork, continued improvement, and collaboration with students: Our staff is currently excellent and experienced with a good mixture of creativity and talent. Check them out!
Responsibly managing school resources and tax payer dollars.
Building relationships with the community that we serve.
My door is always open and while my position is part-time, I live in the community and can make time to hear your ideas, and areas for improvement. Let me know how I can help!
Best,
Doug
d.dearden@tlschool.net