Why did the board select Dr. Mickelson as the next superintendent?
The board conducted a thorough national search that included community listening sessions and feedback. The selection process was intentionally designed to reflect the values and voices of the 4J community. It began with a districtwide survey and a series of facilitated focus groups that gathered input from students, families, staff, and community members. That input shaped the leadership criteria adopted by the board and guided every stage of the search. Final candidates participated in full-day interviews with panels representing a diverse cross-section of the community, ensuring lived experience and local priorities were central to the board’s decision. Dr. Mickelson brings values-driven leadership, relational approach, and experience leading in diverse districts. Her vision aligns with what we heard from our community: a desire for a leader who is visible, compassionate, collaborative, and deeply committed to students.
What is Dr. Mickelson’s background?
Dr. Mickelson brings more than 20 years of public education experience, including roles as a teacher, high school principal, executive director, and superintendent. Her leadership has improved graduation and dual credit outcomes, expanded early learning opportunities, and strengthened inclusive practices across special education and multilingual programs. She is known for building collaborative partnerships with families and community groups, including Tribal leaders and LGBTQ2SIA+ advocates, and for leading with transparency, vision, and a strong commitment to student belonging and success.
What has been the history of most recent superintendents?
The board and former superintendent, Andy Dey, entered into a mutual separation agreement last year. Since then, Colt Gill has served as interim superintendent to support a smooth transition and ensure continuity during the search process.
How was the community involved in the selection process?
The selection process was designed to be highly inclusive and community-informed. It began with a public survey in December 2024, which invited input from students, families, staff, and community members about priorities and leadership qualities for the next superintendent. The district received 1,326 responses.
In addition, 33 focus groups were held with a wide range of participants, including students, educators, staff, families, and community partners. A total of 154 individuals, selected by lottery to ensure diverse participation, shared their perspectives through these facilitated sessions.
The feedback gathered from both the survey and focus groups was synthesized into a draft set of leadership criteria, which was shared publicly and refined through a board work session and public comment. Finalist interviews included full-day sessions with panels representing students, staff, families, and community members. The entire process reflected a broad cross-section of lived experience, helping to ensure that the final decision aligned with the values and priorities of the 4J community.
What can we expect moving forward?
Dr. Mickelson will connect with staff, students, families, and partners across the district beginning after her July 1 start date in the fall to build relationships and ensure a strong start to the 2025–26 school year.
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Dr. Miriam Miralles Mickelson is an values-driven educator who has dedicated her life to transforming public education. Dr. Mickelson’s belief in education as the key to liberation marked her journey from poverty to leadership in education. Born and raised in the Philippines, she spent her childhood hauling water from a well, chopping firewood, and selling bottled water to help support her family of seven. Education was her way forward. At 22, she immigrated to the United States, eventually earning a doctorate and building a career in public education grounded in equity, integrity, and community.