Bellingham Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

Kathryn Weilage, the Chief Financial Officer at Bellingham Public Schools, manages the district's financial health and resource allocation. Overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and fiscal compliance, Weilage ensures that funds are utilized effectively to support the educational mission. This critical role involves strategic financial planning to sustain and enhance programs like special education, career and technical education, and multilingual learning. By maintaining sound financial practices, Kathryn Weilage directly supports the district's commitment to student success and character development as outlined in The Bellingham Promise. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing expenditures, optimizing revenue streams, and ensuring transparency in all financial dealings. Weilage's expertise is vital for the long-term viability of the district's operations and its capacity to serve students, families, and the Bellingham community.

Anika Bartlett, the President at Bellingham Public Schools, provides overarching strategic direction and leadership for the entire district. Guiding the implementation of The Bellingham Promise, Bartlett ensures a unified approach to student success, character development, and community engagement. This executive position involves collaborating with all departments to foster an environment of continuous improvement and educational excellence. By championing innovative programs, including special education, career and technical education, and multilingual learning, Anika Bartlett directly impacts the diverse needs of the student population. The President's leadership is instrumental in aligning district-wide goals with the evolving educational landscape and community expectations. Bartlett's vision shapes the district's commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience from early childhood through high school, reinforcing Bellingham Public Schools' dedication to its students and families.

Thomas Venable, the Bellingham Administrative Association President at Bellingham Public Schools, advocates for the professional interests and operational effectiveness of administrative staff. Overseeing the association's initiatives, Venable ensures that administrative functions seamlessly support the district's educational objectives and The Bellingham Promise. This leadership position involves fostering collaboration between administrators and the wider district leadership to enhance student support services and operational efficiency. By representing administrative perspectives, Thomas Venable directly contributes to the smooth execution of programs such as special education, career and technical education, and multilingual learning. The Bellingham Administrative Association President's role is crucial for maintaining a cohesive and supportive administrative team, vital for delivering a comprehensive educational experience. Venable's focus on administrative excellence underpins the district's commitment to student success and community engagement.

Douglas Benjamin, the School Board President at Bellingham Public Schools, presides over the governing body responsible for district policy and oversight. Leading board meetings and strategic discussions, Benjamin ensures alignment with the district's mission of student success, character development, and community engagement through The Bellingham Promise. This pivotal role involves guiding the board in approving budgets, setting educational standards, and ensuring accountability for all district operations. By championing initiatives that support diverse student needs, Douglas Benjamin directly influences the quality of programs including special education, career and technical education, and multilingual learning. The School Board President's leadership is essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring that the district provides a comprehensive and effective educational experience for all students. Benjamin's governance strengthens Bellingham Public Schools' commitment to its families and the broader community.

Kurt Gazow, the Chief Technology Officer at Bellingham Public Schools, directs the district's technology infrastructure and digital learning initiatives. Overseeing all aspects of technology deployment and maintenance, Gazow ensures that educational tools and systems effectively support student learning and administrative operations. This leadership role involves strategic planning for technology upgrades, cybersecurity measures, and the integration of new educational software. By optimizing the technology environment, Kurt Gazow directly enhances the delivery of comprehensive educational experiences, from early childhood through high school. The Chief Technology Officer's efforts are crucial for supporting special education, career and technical education, and multilingual learning programs, ensuring equitable access to digital resources across the district. Gazow's strategic vision drives technological innovation, aligning with The Bellingham Promise's commitment to student success and community engagement.