Federal Way Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Federal Way Public Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including financial management, human resources, communications, and operational strategy.

Committed to academic excellence, Federal Way Public Schools delivers comprehensive K-12 educational services while fostering an environment where every student succeeds through innovative learning pathways and community-focused engagement.

Leadership Roles at Federal Way Public Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - Sally McLean
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Diane Ellis
  • Chief Communications Officer - Diane Turner
  • Chief Finance & Operations Officer - Rob Bryant
  • Sally McLean - Chief Financial Officer

    Sally McLean, the Chief Financial Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, manages the fiscal health and budgetary allocations for the entire district. Overseeing complex funding streams, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources align with K-12 educational goals and long-term district stability. McLean directs the accounting departments, monitors state and federal grant compliance, and provides critical financial forecasting to the Board of Education. By optimizing expenditure patterns, the Chief Financial Officer supports the delivery of high-quality classroom materials and essential student services. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with district administrators to balance operational costs against academic priorities. Through rigorous oversight of the annual budget, Sally McLean maintains the financial integrity necessary for district growth. McLean secures the economic foundation required to sustain educational programs across the Washington region, ensuring that every dollar directly benefits the student population and enhances the overall learning environment.
    Sally McLean

    Diane Ellis - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Diane Ellis, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, directs talent acquisition, staff retention, and professional development initiatives for the district. Overseeing the recruitment of educators and support personnel, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce meets the diverse needs of the K-12 student body. Ellis manages labor relations, contract negotiations, and employee benefits programs to maintain a high-performing organizational culture. By implementing strategic staffing models, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives excellence in classroom instruction and administrative support. This role involves close coordination with district leadership to align personnel policies with broader educational objectives. Through the development of comprehensive training programs, Diane Ellis fosters continuous improvement among staff members. Ellis strengthens the district's ability to attract top-tier talent, ultimately impacting student outcomes by ensuring that every school building remains fully staffed with qualified, dedicated professionals committed to the mission of the district.
    Diane Ellis

    Diane Turner - Chief Communications Officer

    Diane Turner, the Chief Communications Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, manages all internal and external messaging to ensure transparency and community engagement. Overseeing public relations, media outreach, and digital content strategy, the Chief Communications Officer builds strong connections between the district and the families served. Turner directs the dissemination of critical information regarding school policies, academic achievements, and district-wide initiatives. By crafting clear, consistent narratives, the Chief Communications Officer enhances the reputation of the district within the broader Washington educational landscape. This leadership role requires constant interaction with community stakeholders, parents, and local media to foster trust and collaboration. Through the management of multi-channel communication platforms, Diane Turner ensures that all district messaging remains accessible and informative. Turner drives the strategic vision for public engagement, ensuring that the community remains informed and supportive of the educational goals established for every student in the district.

    Rob Bryant - Chief Finance & Operations Officer

    Rob Bryant, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, directs the physical infrastructure, transportation logistics, and facility maintenance programs. Overseeing the daily operational efficiency of school buildings, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer ensures that the learning environment remains safe, functional, and conducive to academic success. Bryant manages capital projects, procurement processes, and safety protocols to support the district's K-12 mission. By coordinating with maintenance teams and external contractors, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer optimizes the use of district facilities and equipment. This role involves strategic planning for long-term infrastructure needs and the implementation of sustainable operational practices. Through rigorous oversight of logistics and supply chain management, Rob Bryant maintains the physical assets necessary for effective instruction. Bryant secures the operational stability required to support district-wide growth, ensuring that all facilities meet the evolving needs of students and staff across the entire region.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Federal Way Public Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Federal Way Public Schools?
    Federal Way Public Schools is led by Sally McLean (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Diane Ellis (Chief Human Resources Officer) and Diane Turner (Chief Communications Officer).
    Who is part of Federal Way Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Federal Way Public Schools includes leaders such as Sally McLean (Chief Financial Officer), Diane Ellis (Chief Human Resources Officer), Diane Turner (Chief Communications Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Federal Way Public Schools have?
    Federal Way Public Schools has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Federal Way Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Federal Way Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Communications Officer, Chief Finance & Operations Officer.