Federal Way Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

October, 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 and student success, Federal Way Public Schools delivers comprehensive K-12 educational services while fostering an inclusive learning environment for the entire Washington community.

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 integrity of the district. Overseeing long-term financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources align with classroom needs and district-wide educational goals. McLean directs the allocation of state and local funding to support K-12 instructional programs across the region. By monitoring expenditure patterns and revenue streams, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency and accountability for all public funds. Sally McLean collaborates with the Board to optimize resource distribution, ensuring that every dollar supports student achievement. This leadership role involves rigorous auditing and compliance oversight to protect the financial stability of the organization. Through precise fiscal management, McLean secures the necessary capital to sustain high-quality educational services for the diverse student population within the district.
    Sally McLean

    Diane Ellis - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Diane Ellis, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, directs talent acquisition and workforce development initiatives. Overseeing recruitment strategies, the Chief Human Resources Officer attracts high-quality educators to serve the K-12 student body. Ellis manages labor relations and professional development programs to maintain a high standard of instructional excellence. By implementing equitable hiring practices, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. Diane Ellis coordinates with district leadership to align staffing levels with enrollment trends and academic requirements. This leadership role involves navigating complex employment regulations and collective bargaining agreements to ensure operational harmony. Through strategic workforce planning, Ellis supports the retention of skilled staff members, ultimately enhancing the educational experience for students across the entire district.
    Diane Ellis

    Diane Turner - Chief Communications Officer

    Diane Turner, the Chief Communications Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, manages public relations and community engagement strategies. Overseeing internal and external messaging, the Chief Communications Officer ensures that stakeholders remain informed about district initiatives and K-12 educational milestones. Turner directs the development of digital content and media outreach to strengthen the connection between the district and the local community. By facilitating transparent communication channels, the Chief Communications Officer builds trust and support for school programs. Diane Turner coordinates with executive leadership to craft consistent narratives regarding district performance and strategic goals. This leadership role involves managing crisis communications and promoting positive stories that highlight student achievements. Through effective outreach, Turner amplifies the mission of the district, ensuring that the community remains actively involved in the success of every student.

    Rob Bryant - Chief Finance & Operations Officer

    Rob Bryant, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, directs the physical infrastructure and logistical support systems of the district. Overseeing facility maintenance and capital projects, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer ensures that school environments remain safe and conducive to learning for all K-12 students. Bryant manages transportation logistics and food service operations to support the daily needs of the student population. By optimizing operational workflows, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer improves efficiency across all district sites. Rob Bryant collaborates with the finance team to align infrastructure investments with long-term budgetary constraints. This leadership role involves overseeing safety protocols and environmental compliance to maintain high standards for all district facilities. Through rigorous operational oversight, Bryant provides the essential foundation required for academic success throughout the entire organization.

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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.