Education Service District 123 names new superintendent

Education Service District 123 has hired a new superintendent to replace Bruce Hawkins, who is retiring.

Darcy Weisner, the sole internal candidate among three finalists, was approved at the Thursday meeting of the district’s board, according to a news release.

Weisner is currently the assistant superintendent of instructional support. He will take over the agency on July 1.

“I hope to continue promoting and modeling our mission of helping all students realize their dreams and aspirations,” Weisner said.

Hawkins announced his retirement last summer. He’s worked in the district’s top office for nearly 13 years. ESD 123 is based in Pasco and helps more than 20 districts throughout the Mid-Columbia in providing resources and programs for schools and students.

Weisner has worked in education for 34 years and with the ESD since July 2014. Before that he was superintendent of the Clarkston School District and a school administrator in Walla Walla and Spokane. He was a classroom teacher and basketball coach for 20 years of his career.

The two other finalists were Superintendent Michael P. Lasher of Oregon’s Douglas ESD and Superintendent C. Mark Mansell of Washington’s La Center School District.

This story was originally published January 28, 2016 at 5:10 PM with the headline "Education Service District 123 names new superintendent."