Federal Way Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

November, 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 for K-12 students, Federal Way Public Schools fosters an inclusive learning environment while driving district-wide innovation to ensure every student succeeds in a global society.

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 comprehensive fiscal health of the district. Overseeing budget development and long-term financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer ensures resources align with educational goals for K-12 students. McLean directs the allocation of state and federal funding, maintaining strict compliance with regulatory standards while optimizing operational expenditures. By collaborating with the Board of Directors, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to support classroom technology and facility maintenance. Sally McLean monitors economic trends across the Pacific Northwest to forecast revenue shifts, providing the district with stability during fluctuating market conditions. This leadership role involves rigorous auditing and transparent reporting to the community. Through precise fiscal oversight, McLean guarantees that every dollar directly benefits the student population, ultimately strengthening the financial foundation of the entire educational organization.
    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 for the entire district. Overseeing recruitment strategies for educators and support staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the presence of high-quality personnel in every classroom. Ellis manages labor relations, contract negotiations, and professional development programs designed to improve instructional outcomes. By implementing equitable hiring practices, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. Diane Ellis coordinates with department heads to address staffing needs across the regional landscape, ensuring operational continuity throughout the academic year. This leadership role involves managing employee benefits, performance evaluations, and retention initiatives to maintain a motivated workforce. Through strategic human capital management, Ellis supports the district mission by cultivating an environment where staff members thrive, directly impacting the quality of education provided to K-12 students.
    Diane Ellis

    Diane Turner - Chief Communications Officer

    Diane Turner, the Chief Communications Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, architects the public image and community engagement strategy for the district. Overseeing internal and external messaging, the Chief Communications Officer ensures transparency and alignment with educational objectives. Turner manages media relations, digital outreach, and crisis communication protocols to maintain trust with families and stakeholders. By developing comprehensive engagement campaigns, the Chief Communications Officer highlights student achievements and district milestones across the broader Washington region. Diane Turner coordinates with the Superintendent to articulate the vision of the district, ensuring consistent communication across all platforms. This leadership role involves analyzing community feedback to refine outreach efforts and improve public perception. Through proactive storytelling and clear information dissemination, Turner strengthens the connection between the school system and the community, ultimately supporting the long-term success and reputation of the district in a competitive educational landscape.

    Rob Bryant - Chief Finance & Operations Officer

    Rob Bryant, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer at Federal Way Public Schools, directs the logistical infrastructure and facility management of the district. Overseeing transportation services, food programs, and building maintenance, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer ensures a safe and efficient environment for all K-12 learners. Bryant manages capital projects and infrastructure upgrades, optimizing the physical assets of the district to support modern learning requirements. By streamlining supply chain processes and vendor contracts, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer reduces overhead costs while improving service delivery. Rob Bryant coordinates with administrative teams to align operational capacity with enrollment growth across the district. This leadership role involves implementing sustainable practices and safety protocols to protect the district investment in physical facilities. Through rigorous operational oversight, Bryant guarantees that the daily logistics of the school system function seamlessly, allowing educators to focus entirely on student achievement and academic progress.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Education

    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.