Michelle C. Reid

Dr. Michelle C. Reid became superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools on July 1, 2022.

Previously, Dr. Reid served as superintendent for Northshore School District, Washington, a school district that is seen as the gold standard in Washington State. From 2013-16, she served as superintendent of South Kitsap School District in Port Orchard, Washington. Prior to 2013, she was the deputy superintendent, district athletic director, and high school principal in Port Angeles (Washington) School District. At the beginning of her career, she taught science in middle school and then physics, chemistry, and math in high school.

Dr. Reid is known regionally and nationally for strong instructional leadership. She was named AASA National Superintendent of the Year in 2021 for exemplary communications, her work in closing achievement gaps, and leading her previous school system in uncharted territory at the start of the pandemic.

She has been praised for her early pandemic response; her creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students; her equity work; strength in both personal and organizational communication; and understanding of regional, national, and international issues. Dr. Reid is also known for leading robust community engagement to ensure all stakeholders, including students, have a voice.

With a STEM background, Dr. Reid has a proven track record in improving math and science proficiency, but is also a strong believer that success in these subjects does not happen without equally strong literacy skills.

Dr. Reid’s commitment to increasing access, opportunity, and equity for all students in public education led to the creation of Northshore’s Racial and Educational Justice Department. During her tenure, she oversaw increases in graduation rates for all students - especially English Language learners.

Dr. Reid received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Washington, master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of Washington, and her bachelor’s degree in Natural Science/Chemistry from the University of Puget Sound. She also received a Certificate in Advanced Leadership from Harvard University in 2019.