This story is the first in a series highlighting local school superintendents as part of GSI’s IN Schools campaign. Watch each week for the next edition!
It’s rare for a school district’s superintendent to also serve as a backup bus driver. But Kim Headrick, superintendent of Medical Lake School District, is exceptional. A proud graduate of the same district, Headrick’s leadership philosophy is based on service and preparedness. That mindset motivated her to earn a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), simply to be able to step in and drive the bus for students if needed.
That’s a powerful example of her dedication to students, stepping in when they need her most. “If we expect our staff to show up for students no matter what,” Headrick says, “then I need to be ready to show up too—in every way.”
Her parents served as early mentors: her father was the principal of Medical Lake High School, and her mother was a K–2 teacher at Fairchild Air Force Base. Together, they set a standard for compassion, dedication, and professionalism that Headrick has followed throughout her career. She recognizes that growing up in a home that valued education gave her an insider’s understanding of both the joys and challenges of teaching and leadership.
Headrick’s academic pursuits highlight her many passions, as she earned degrees from the University of Washington, Eastern Washington University, University of Nevada–Las Vegas, and Gonzaga University. Not quite satisfied, she earned her Superintendent Certificate from Washington State University. Her academic credentials show not only her drive but also her dedication to ongoing learning and excellence in educational leadership.
Headrick leads with purpose, preparedness, and unwavering dedication to her students and community. One of her most defining moments was a district-wide evacuation she led while serving as a middle school principal. It was winter, snow covered the ground, and a bomb threat required quick, decisive action. Headrick was the only administrator in the district at that time. Fortunately, they had recently practiced a full evacuation plan, and thanks to detailed preparation, clear communication, and an exceptional staff, every student was safely relocated and reunited with their families. The experience was a strong affirmation of leadership under pressure and, in many ways, the moment Headrick first recognized herself as a future superintendent.
Both on and off the job, Headrick is recognized for her warmth, strong sense of responsibility, and unwavering belief in students. She is deeply committed to the Medical Lake Promise: Every Student, Every Day—ensuring each student feels seen, supported, and celebrated.
In an era when school leadership demands more than ever, Headrick exemplifies action-oriented, heart-centered service to her students, families, schools, and her hometown community.
Dr. Headrick is just one of the thousands of professionals working to educate the next generation of Spokane leaders and citizens, but they can’t do it alone.
Learn more about how you can support GSI’s IN School’s campaign to foster stronger connections between our schools and the communities they serve.