This story part of a series highlighting local school superintendents as part of GSI’s IN Schools campaign. Watch each week for the next edition!
Nobody expects a fire alarm to go off on a student’s first day at a new school, but that’s exactly what happened to then-elementary school principal Dr. Alexa Allman. And that was after a late-night flood threatened to delay the opening. Despite these setbacks, Allman and her team worked together to ensure a successful (and memorable) start, showing that adaptability and teamwork are essential to effective leadership.
Now serving as superintendent of the Deer Park School District, Allman holds degrees from Washington State University and Western Washington University (Master’s). She finds purpose in shaping students’ lives and supporting her colleagues, considering it an honor to serve in the Deer Park community in this role.
Allman has held various educational roles across different grade levels. At her core, she genuinely cares about those she serves. She works to ensure students, staff, and the community stay connected and recognizes the strength of such a close-knit community.
From her early days as a teacher to her role as superintendent, Allman has consistently shown a strong dedication to listening and learning from those around her. She credits a long list of colleagues who have guided her at every stage and helped her develop as a leader, including her staff, principals, directors, and fellow assistant superintendents. “I enjoy learning from everyone as everyone has something to contribute,” Allman says. “It is my responsibility to give back, mentor, and help future leaders grow and thrive.”
Her mission is to make sure that students, staff, families, and the community feel seen, valued, and heard. She strives to build and unify the community so that everyone feels safe and welcomed in the school. She enjoys the small-town vibe of Deer Park, where “everyone knows your name.”
Allman’s favorite memories are of walking into classrooms and watching students learn. She finds great joy in seeing kids engage in learning, whether through conversation, hands-on activities, or curiosity, and she feels incredibly rewarded when she hears a child say, “Oh, I get it now!”
Although her work in the system has shifted more toward working with adults, she values opportunities to support everyone around her. It is her mission to not only learn every employee’s name and face in the district but also to spread good news and share the great work happening for students and adults throughout the community.
Looking ahead, Allman remains dedicated to helping every student have the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. She believes in preparing students for their hopes and dreams by fostering a sense of belonging and confidence so they can shape their own futures.
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.